When strategies become overly complex; filled with dozens of initiatives, infinite KPIs and endless slides; it often signals a lack of clear thinking.
Complexity can be a defence mechanism: if we do everything, surely something will work. In reality, complexity dilutes resources, confuses teams and slows decision‑making. Strong strategy is focused. It identifies the few levers that matter and commits to them.
Leaders should view complexity as a red flag and simplify relentlessly. Ask what can be removed without harming the core. If you can’t explain your strategy on a single page, it’s probably too complex.
