"ビジネススクールは単純な行動よりも難しく複雑な行動を評価しますが、単純な行動の方が効果的です"

Business schools often celebrate and reward complex, intricate strategies and behaviors in their students, but in reality, it's the simple, straightforward actions that tend to be the most effective.

Think about it like this: when you're trying to solve a problem, the most complicated solution isn’t always the best. Sometimes, the simplest approach gets the job done more efficiently. This idea is rooted in the belief that complexity, while appearing sophisticated and intellectually impressive, can often lead to unnecessary complications and hinder real progress.

Historically, business education, especially in prestigious institutions, has leaned towards championing sophisticated models and intricate strategies. This emphasis might stem from a desire to showcase intellectual prowess or to dissect business problems from every possible angle. But, in the real world, businesses often need clarity and direct action to thrive. Warren Buffett and Charlie Munger, renowned for their straightforward investment strategies, have often criticized the financial industry's penchant for complexity. Munger’s quote underscores this very sentiment, suggesting that while business schools might push for convoluted approaches, practicality and simplicity usually win the day.

Let's dive into a real-world example: Southwest Airlines. Back in the 1970s, while other airlines were busy complicating their operations with multiple aircraft types and jumbled routes, Southwest decided to keep things simple. They used only one type of aircraft—the Boeing 737—which streamlined maintenance and training. Their routes were straightforward too, focusing on short, point-to-point flights instead of the hub-and-spoke model others used. Guess what? This simplicity not only reduced costs but also improved efficiency and customer satisfaction. Fast forward a few decades, and Southwest is one of the most successful airlines in the world.

So, how can you apply this wisdom in your own life or work? Start by cutting through the noise. When faced with a challenge, resist the urge to overthink or overcomplicate. Ask yourself: what's the simplest way to achieve the desired outcome? Focus on clear, actionable steps that lead directly to your goal. It’s like decluttering your mind. Prioritize what truly matters and let go of the rest.

Now, imagine you’re working in a startup. You’ve got this great product, but sales aren’t picking up. The team starts brainstorming complex marketing strategies involving multi-channel campaigns, influencer collaborations, and a bunch of other bells and whistles. It gets overwhelming. Then, someone suggests a simpler approach: reaching out directly to a handful of key customers, getting their feedback, and iterating the product based on their input. This straightforward strategy not only saves time and resources but also creates a product that better meets customer needs.

In essence, while sophisticated behavior can seem attractive and may even be rewarded in academic settings, the beauty and effectiveness of simplicity cannot be overstated. Next time you’re tempted to dive into a labyrinth of complexity, remember that sometimes, the simplest path is the most powerful one. It’s like magic—only it’s real and it works.