“Clarity comes from subtraction. The problem is that our default is set to add.” – Greg McKeown
Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less is a book I return to time and time again. Author Greg McKeown argues that you can achieve true clarity and purpose not by adding more to our plates but by subtracting the non-essentials. This counterintuitive approach suggests that by stripping away the noise and focusing on what truly matters, we can lead more meaningful and fulfilling lives. By eliminating distractions and unnecessary obligations, we create space to invest our time and energy into the few activities that genuinely align with our ultimate goals.
This concept is invaluable in leadership as well. Leaders need to be crystal clear about their priorities in order to execute on what’s essential. This means subtracting what’s not important.
I remember a leader who told me how she handled requests from her team to start a new project. She would ask them how the new project was related to their team’s top priorities for the year. If they could make a case for how the project helped their team achieve a strategic priority, she would approve it. If they could not, she would encourage them to bring their ideas to the next strategic planning offsite. She kept a laser focus on what was essential.
Implementing the principles of Essentialism involves a disciplined pursuit of less. This means regularly evaluating our commitments and being willing to say no to opportunities that do not serve our core purpose. It requires courage to challenge societal norms that glorify busyness and to embrace the power of focus and simplicity. The process of subtraction leads to clarity – and that’s what really adds up.