The problem with hard problems

Solving hard problems is seen as a good thing.

Culture celebrates individuals who do this.

But what if not solving hard problems is better?

Whenever there’s a hard problem, there’s usually a simple one nearby.

Hard development projects are often caused by too many resources, too many features, or too little planning. Hard creative projects are often caused by too many details, too complex a style, or too little focus. Hard business problems are often caused by too many ideas, too many hands, too many ‘good ideas’.

What if simple, elegant, effective solutions are better?

What if they’re only found when we eschew hard problems in favour of what lies just beneath the surface?