If you are thriving in your life and career, keep doing what you are doing! Or if you are like me and want to move towards your goals faster, I’ve learned a fresh take on a timeless lesson that may help: less is more! 

A few years ago, Jim Weber took over as CEO of a struggling shoe company. They were last in sales, had a mountain of debt, and he was the fourth CEO in just two years. Jim delivered his first big strategic presentation, and it shocked employees and their top clients. 

In preparation for this moment, Jim did his homework. He researched the industry, his competitors, and the market. It’s a lesson we can all learn from. While only a select few will ever be CEOs of a large company, we are all in control of our lives. Just like a CEO can help turn around a company, we can change the trajectory of our lives. We just need to be willing to assess our environment, identify opportunities for growth, and commit to a new plan. 

So what did Jim propose? 

He cut their biggest seller (a $39 pair of casual shoes) and stated the company would become a performance running shoe brand, focused exclusively on running. 

This story is another reminder of how less can be more. 

Jim cut products and distribution channels. People questioned the decision and assumed this was another CEO on the way out. However, over 20 years later Jim is still CEO, and the company, Brooks thrived. This story is told in the book, Running with Purpose: How Brooks Outpaced Goliath Competitors to Lead the Pack. 

I wish you well on your journey of living well. 

Perhaps by removing some distractions, we can experience the growth we seek, because Less is More!