When situations become complex, our first instinct is often to add more: more tools, more meetings, more spreadsheets, more analysis… Yet, the best – whether athletes or leaders –> do exactly the opposite: they go back to basics.

A tennis player in difficulty doesn’t try to invent a new shot. They return to their serve, their positioning, their tactics, and their breathing.

In our profession – consulting and management – it’s the same:

• Refocus on essential objectives.
• Revisit the fundamentals of planning and process.
•  priorities with clarity.

And when conducting a complex diagnosis, starting again with a simple approach, clear steps, and a proven framework often helps to see things more clearly and make more steady progress.

This return to fundamentals has two virtues:
It restores confidence.
It clarifies action.

By focusing on what is simple and essential, we regain control and become effective again, even in the most complex environments.

So, next time everything seems tangled… Do as champions do: go back to basics, ground yourself, breathe, and come back stronger.

And if that’s still not enough, you can always call Penon Partners (and its SAIL methodology).

Written by Jean-Christophe Laurent –> jclaurent@penonpartners.com