The Hidden Cost of Complexity

Ian Miller | 06/20/2025

Bigger isn't always better. As anything grows—whether it's juggling balls, a business, or responsibilities in life—complexity doesn't just increase; it multiplies exponentially. A juggler adding one more ball doesn't face a slight uptick in difficulty; each additional ball creates a leap in complexity. A business growing from one employee to ten doesn't just scale tenfold—its challenges grow far beyond that. Adding a single new role or task to your life? It’s never "just one more thing."

The more powerful the technology, the more intricate the code. The more options we have, the harder it is to choose wisely. Complexity creeps into every decision, and we often underestimate its weight. Are we truly accounting for it when we say "yes" to something new? Complexity isn't inherently bad, but it demands realism. More complexity means more time to decide, more boundaries to thrive.

Conversely, simplicity brings freedom. Limiting options, reducing the "balls" you're juggling, creates space for spontaneity and joy. A simpler life means saying no to many things, embracing less—but less often means more. More margin, more clarity, more room to breathe.

Choose complexity, and you’ll need to accept its limitations to make it work. Choose simplicity, and you’ll trade quantity for quality—less stuff, but more freedom. Recognizing this reality brings clarity to every decision, helping you craft a life that aligns with what truly matters. And ultimately, with God's call for your life.