"When you’re first thinking through an idea, it’s important not to get bogged down in complexity. Thinking simply and clearly, is hard to do."

When you start brainstorming, it's easy to get tangled up in all the little details and complexities. The core idea here is that simplicity is key. When you're working on something new, it's better to keep things straightforward. It sounds easy, but trust me, it's one of the toughest things to pull off.

Think about it like this: Have you ever had a brilliant idea, but as you started to flesh it out, it turned into a complicated mess? This is exactly what we’re talking about. Keeping your thoughts simple and clear is a skill that takes practice. It’s like when you’re designing something – a website, a new recipe, whatever. If you throw in too many elements, it ends up confusing and overwhelming. The same goes for your ideas.

There’s actually a historical piece to this. Albert Einstein, arguably one of the greatest minds ever, was known for his ability to break down complex theories into simple concepts. You’d think someone like him would relish in complexity, right? But nope. He believed in simplicity. He even said, "If you can’t explain it simply, you don’t understand it well enough." It’s a testament to the power of clear thinking.

Let’s dive into a real-life example. Think about Steve Jobs and the iPhone. When Jobs was developing the iPhone, he insisted on making it as simple and user-friendly as possible. At the time, smartphones were loaded with buttons and features that made them confusing to use. Jobs stripped all that away, focusing on a sleek design and intuitive user interface. It revolutionized the industry and set a new standard for what a phone could be. This is simplicity in action.

So, how do you apply this wisdom to your own ideas? First, start by writing down your idea in one sentence. If you can’t do that, it’s too complex. Then, break it down into its most basic components. Think of it like peeling an onion – keep removing layers until you get to the core. Another tip is to explain your idea to someone who has no clue about it. If they get it, you’re on the right track.

Imagine you’re at a coffee shop with a friend. You launch into a passionate explanation of your latest project, and halfway through, you notice their eyes glazing over. Uh-oh. You’ve lost them in the weeds. Now back up. Instead of diving into all the intricate details, give them the elevator pitch. “I’m working on an app that helps people find nearby cafes with the best Wi-Fi.” Simple, right? Your friend perks up, and now you’ve got their attention. You can always dive into specifics later, but you've got to hook them first.

So next time you’re cooking up a new idea, remember to keep it simple. It’s easy to get lost in complexity, but the real magic happens when you strip it all down to the essentials. Think of it like this: simplicity is the secret sauce. It's what will make your ideas clear, powerful, and memorable. And that’s something we can all appreciate, whether we’re designing the next big thing or just chatting over coffee.