In business, complexity is not the exception. For every facet of an organization, the increasing and infinite demands that need to be met are inevitable, especially if your company is growing at an unprecedented rate. What’s more, the factors that contribute to this zigzag road are incessant – from volume of tasks, to the relentlessly evolving market trends. And let’s face it: managing complex organizations can be challenging. For one, it’s harder to predict and more challenging to make sense of things. While the dream scenario is always going to be a simple, straightforward path, flexibility is key.
An effective leader knows that complexity is an opportunity, not a threat. While its facade can be overwhelming, knowing the ins and outs of a hazy and cluttered situation is a chance to regroup, reassess, and revamp your organization.
Let me explain.
Think of it as being in a jungle. If you’re easily rattled by the pathless hills with sharp branches hanging left and right, and excessively thick bushes standing your way, chances are you’ll never get out of that situation. But if you compartmentalize, examine what needs to be done, craft a plan, and slowly but surely get rid of the obstacles along your way, you’ll find yourself accelerating one step at a time. Even better, you might find yourself some useful tools that may help you on your journey.
If a clear path isn’t directly presented to you, then make one yourself. Here are key things to remember in turning complexities into opportunities:
Accept Complexity
The first step leaders should do is to accept complexity. Don’t fight it – the more you resist it, the harder it resists you. Embrace the fact that certain factors are out of your control, and you have no choice but to make lemonade out of lemons. Once you accept, you release the stress out of your system, and you’ll have a clearer mind in knowing exactly what to do and how to declutter complicated situations.
The biggest obstacle in managing complexity is the tendency to be overwhelmed. By looking at it directly, with no fear, you’ll eventually adapt and find solace in knowing that it’s not a sentence; rather, it’s a challenge you need to overcome.
Promote Collaboration
Practicing and promoting collaboration among your employees is an effective way to simplify complex situations. Collaborating means distributing labor and creating a plan to effectively clear your path. This serves as an opportunity for your organization to truly function as a unit where every component delivers its purpose.
The biggest mistake most leaders make is they try to do everything on their own. While it’s tempting to constantly have things your way, it is much more effective to give power to managers, supervisors, and other department heads and let them handle their territories. Your job is to overlook and give direction. Be hands-on, but don’t carry the burden all by yourself. Your team is your company’s most valuable asset – take advantage of that.
Build Your Resilience
Effective complexity management is a long-term investment. Not only will you hone your problem-solving skills, but you’ll also build your resilience. Utilize the friction of obstacles to toughen up your character and sharpen your mind, gearing you up to make impact.
The takeaway here is that leaders shouldn’t rest when things get simple. Always be prepared when situations go off course. Complexity provides the growth spurts that can take your organization to the next level. Learn how to manage it and reap invaluable rewards.
Originally published on Hackernoon.
