What 'Complex' Truly Means

A precise definition of 'complexity' hinges on our understanding of cause-and-effect relationships. When these connections are obscured, we encounter complexity. In essence, the definition of 'complex' is quite straightforward!

The Cynefin framework offers an insightful perspective that helps us navigate the emotional labyrinths associated with complexity. I encourage you to explore the Cynefin framework; it can fundamentally change how you perceive the world and its intricacies.

This brief 2-minute and 30-second video is well worth your time!

If you're interested, I can write more about the intriguing subject of complexity within the Cynefin framework. For now, it's important to recognize that 'complex' has specific definitions which, once understood, can counteract the emotional turmoil that often clouds our judgment.

What 'Complex' Conveys Through Emotions

The term 'complex' often suggests that one is overwhelmed by circumstances that seem beyond comprehension. Consequently, it becomes easy to absolve ourselves of blame when we falter in the face of emotional turmoil.

Regardless of any established definitions of 'complex,' such as those in the Cynefin framework, emotions thrive on our confusion regarding the unknowability of cause-and-effect relationships, blurring the lines between truth and falsehood. Emotions operate like dreams, disregarding the principle of non-contradiction.

Consider a dream where reality is turned on its head. Is that complexity or mere chaos? You might have clarity now, but what happens when emotions take control?

Life can be challenging, but that doesn’t necessarily equate to it being 'complex.' Often, life does not align with our wishes or desires, and that’s simply a fact.

Emotions can mislead us, albeit unintentionally.

So, Should We Eliminate Emotions?

No, we cannot eliminate emotions; they are intrinsic to our humanity. Emotions are akin to a source of internal intoxication: we must engage with them without becoming overwhelmed. Particularly, we must quiet our emotions when making decisions.

When we decide, our perspective—a viewpoint that influences the decision—intersects with the external world. To make effective decisions, we need to think about the world we will affect through our actions. This is where emotions often falter because they misunderstand and seek by association.

Emotions are inherently personal. They mistake themselves for the reality of the world. This disconnect creates a significant gap between the fabricated reality emotions conjure within us and the actual world outside, leading many to label life as 'complex.'

Instead, emotions tend to create a muddle that obscures our ability to differentiate between our perceptions and external realities.

Sometimes, this confusion can shuffle our perceptions and allow us to view situations differently. For instance, when we consume alcohol, our emotions distort our ability to reflect the world around us. While this can occasionally be beneficial, it is often detrimental.

Conclusions

I propose a challenge: for the next six months, refrain from using the word 'complex.' When you feel tempted to use it, pause and replace it with 'undesired.'

Unless you require the precise concept of 'complexity'—as in the Cynefin framework—liberate your language from this term. When you say 'complex,' recognize that it may not be your true self speaking, but rather an emotional response to overwhelming feelings. The emotional weight of 'complex' is often detached from reality; it represents a false perception.

We frequently overlook the profound power of words. More importantly, we forget that this power can be twofold: words can empower us or confine us. We often confine ourselves through the language we use without considering its true meaning. In essence, we are our own prison.

Yet, we also possess the keys to unlock that prison door. These keys lie in thinking beyond our confines! We need to pay attention to the words we choose and examine their emotional implications. There is always a tendency to overcomplicate our perspectives, leading us to exclaim, "It’s complex!" Simplifying our viewpoints is crucial.

Thank you for taking the time to read this!

If my insights have inspired you to reduce the sense of complexity in your life, please share this article and follow my work!