Life has a funny way of complicating things. We overthink, overanalyze, and chase elusive “perfect” solutions, only to find ourselves stuck. Yet, more often than not, the answers we seek are right in front of us—hidden in plain sight.
1. We overlook the obvious
Humans have a tendency to look for complexity. When faced with a problem, our brains instinctively search for sophisticated solutions, assuming that anything simple must be too easy to work. Ironically, this often blinds us to what’s already available:A tool or method we’ve used before.Advice someone has casually given.A simple adjustment we’ve dismissed as “too minor.”Sometimes, the fix is as simple as changing your perspective or taking a step back.
2. Clarity comes from simplicityThe most elegant solutions are often straightforward:
Want to save more money?
Track your spending.
Struggling with time management?
Prioritize the most important tasks.
Seeking inspiration?
Talk to someone outside your circle.We complicate because we want a “perfect” solution, but often the practical, simple step is enough to move the needle.
3. Practice seeing the obvious
Training yourself to notice solutions in plain sight is a skill. A few techniques:
Pause and reflect: Step away from the problem for a moment. Often the answer appears when your mind isn’t under pressure.
Break it down: Deconstruct the problem into its simplest elements.Ask the simplest question: “What’s the easiest thing I could do right now?”
Observe others: Sometimes, solutions are visible in how someone else handles a similar challenge.
4. The power of awareness
Being aware that solutions often lie in plain sight can shift your mindset. You stop chasing complexity and start noticing opportunities, resources, and ideas that were always available but overlooked.
Life doesn’t always demand complicated solutions. The next time you’re stuck on a problem, look closer—really look. Chances are, the solution isn’t hidden in some far-off place or advanced strategy; it’s sitting quietly in plain sight, waiting for you to notice.
