One of the biggest mistakes leaders make is assuming that because something is obvious to them, it is obvious to everyone else. Whether you are communicating a strategy, launching a new initiative, or solving a business problem, clarity should always come before complexity.

I find it helpful to ask five simple questions:

Is it simple? Can the idea be explained without unnecessary complexity?
Is it clear? Will people understand what is expected of them?
Is it practical? Can it be implemented with the resources and capabilities available?
Is it relevant? Does it address the problem that actually needs solving?
Does it make sense? Does it align with sound judgment and the way people naturally think and behave?

I think the best ideas are rarely the most complicated as they are the ones people can understand, believe in, and put into practice. As leaders, our role is not to make simple things sound complex, it’s to make complex things understandable. That is what creates alignment, builds confidence, and enables people to move forward together.

Most people crave simplicity, and beyond simplicity is complexity. I’m interested in the simplicity on the other side of complexity. There’s an inextricable link between leadership and communication because those who lead are those who clearly speak about what they believe. I think communication is the most important skill in the world, and simple communication skills should be taught in schools. Communication is both words and emotions but what’s really powerful, are words loaded with emotion. Words filled with emotion can move nations, they can help people change directions and establish good or bad ideology. The stronger and wiser you become, the more caring you become shows up in your language and manner of communication. Would you like some help with that? Contact me via e-mail and we can arrange a meeting in person or online.

The five tests of obviousness

Don't hold back