Why We Often Resist the Simple Solutions

Even when clear-cut solutions exist, we instinctively avoid them. From health habits to business tools, simple fixes often lose to complexity. Let’s explore why our minds resist simplicity—and why embracing solutions can unlock real progress.

A man stands at a crossroads, symbolizing resistance to simple solutions.

The Psychology of Complexity Bias

The complexity bias is a cognitive shortcut: we equate complexity with quality. Research confirms that even when simple answers work best, people favor complex ones atlassian.comsciencedirect.com+6moresapien.org+6any.do+6. This bias often hides itself behind intellectual prestige or fear of oversimplification linkedin.com+1any.do+1.

When Complexity Beats Simple Solutions

1. Everyday Choices

Choosing elaborate task-management apps over a simple notebook often feels “more capable”—though studies show it doesn’t improve effectiveness .

2. Health Fads vs. Simple Habits

While novelty supplements and gadgets draw attention, nothing beats the basics. For instance, walking just 21 minutes daily reduces heart disease risk by 30% thesun.co.uk+11health.harvard.edu+11phoenixhomehc.com+11.

A landmark European study showed even moderate walks (~2,337 steps/day) cut cardiovascular mortality nypost.com+15en.wikipedia.org+15phoenixhomehc.com+15.

Why We Prefer Complicated Paths

A. Status & Signaling

We often believe complexity signals intelligence. As a result, complexity bias pushes us toward solutions that look impressive—even when they don’t perform better en.wikipedia.org+8linkedin.com+8any.do+8.

B. Novelty & Engagement

Complex solutions captivate us. Simple solutions often feel dull, making them less appealing despite their efficacy any.do.

C. Fear of Oversimplifying

Complexity feels safer—it seems to cover more ground. Simple solutions can spark doubt: “Is it really enough?” .

Real-World Examples

Business: Over-Engineering vs. MVP

Tech entrepreneurs often reject lean strategies for overbuilt systems. Yet data shows simple, manual MVPs often outperform early-stage complex platforms.

Healthcare: Walking vs. Gadgets

Despite smartphones tracking health metrics, foundational habits prevail. Harvard research confirms that brief walks significantly reduce chronic-disease risk health.harvard.edu+9health.harvard.edu+9pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov+9.

But Simple Doesn’t Mean Effortless

Simplicity demands:

  • Consistency: daily walking needs discipline.
  • Self-awareness: choosing habit over hype.
  • Courage: trusting minimal but effective methods.

These behavioral aspects often require more effort than flashy complexity.

How to Choose Effective Simple Solutions

  1. Identify complexity bias
    Recognize resistance to simplicity as bias—not inefficiency.
  2. Measure outcomes
    Compare simple vs. complex options. Often, simple wins.
  3. Track small wins
    Celebrate milestones—for example, daily walks—to reinforce progress.
  4. Surround with pragmatism
    Networks that support results over image make simple solutions more appealing.
  5. Standardize simplicity
    Apply simple frameworks like checklists and templates to streamline complex processes en.wikipedia.org+4roanoke.edu+4any.do+4researchgate.net+8moresapien.org+8any.do+8any.do.

Final Thoughts

Our instinct to avoid simple solutions is driven more by perception than truth. Complexity bias, social pressures, and the allure of novelty blind us to what works. Recognizing and intentionally choosing simplicity can bring clarity, progress, and real-world impact.

References

Any.do (2022) The Complexity Bias – Why You Should Go for Simplicity. Available at: https://www.any.do/blog/the-complexity-bias-why-you-should-go-for-simplicity/ (Accessed: 20 June 2025).

Harvard Health Publishing (2021) Walking for Health. Available at: https://www.health.harvard.edu/exercise-and-fitness/walking-for-health (Accessed: 20 June 2025).

Murtagh, E.M., et al. (2010) ‘The effect of walking on risk factors for cardiovascular disease: A meta-analysis’, International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, 7(1), pp. 1–12. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3098122/ (Accessed: 20 June 2025).