Feeling Stuck? A Simple Way to Untangle Complex Problems
Why System Thinking Feels Overwhelming and How to Simplify It
Hey System Thinker,
Do you feel overwhelmed trying to map out how systems work?
Have you tried simplifying them, only to make things worse?
Are you tired of complexity ruling your decisions and leaving you stuck?
Here’s the truth: most people fail at simplifying systems because they cut away too much.
They create models that ignore key interdependencies.
But it doesn’t have to be this way.
Simplifying Systems Without Losing the Plot
I’m here to teach you how to simplify systems without losing what makes them work.
When you approach systems with the right level of complexity, you unlock clarity and control.
You don’t need to drown in complexity, but you also can’t afford to strip out what matters.
Here’s how you master the balance:
Divide ÷ Isolate — Break the system into parts you can actually understand.
Measure + Connect — Treat connections like probabilities, not guarantees.
Optimize - Overlap — each part without sabotaging the whole.
Let’s get it right.
1/ Divide ÷ Isolate
The first step to clarity is breaking the system into smaller, independent parts.
Each part must serve a purpose. No fluff, no ambiguity—just function. By isolating these parts, you cut through the noise and focus on what matters.
Then, map how each part connects to the others and contributes to the bigger picture.
2/ Measure + Connect
Stop treating connections like they’re set in stone—they’re not.
Every connection is a probability, not a guarantee. Think of it as a confidence score: how likely is one input to lead to the desired output? Assigning these probabilities gives you control over uncertainty.
It lets you predict outcomes with precision, not guesswork.
3/ Optimize - Overlap
Each part is its own system—treat it that way.
Optimize one part without disrupting the others. This keeps the system stable while making it more efficient. By focusing on individual components, you’ll create a system that works better without introducing chaos.
Incremental gains add up.
Conclusion
Simplifying systems isn’t for the lazy or the reckless. It’s for those who want control and results.
Divide the system
Measure the connections
Optimize with precision
This is how you simplify without losing the plot.
Cheers,
Thiago V Ricieri
System Thinker @ Systematic Success
Maker @ Making of a Maker
Engineering Manager, Apps @ Pluto TV / Paramount Global
Founder @ Ghost Ship & Co.
Digital Nomad @ Instagram, Threads, X.com, LinkedIn, GitHub, Website
PS... I started Systematic Success to share the secrets I’ve accumulated over the past decade—leading teams, working remotely, and building proven systems. In the age of AI, the future will be owned by those who can create and frameworks and scale processes. If you found value in this edition, consider sharing it with a friend. And feel free to reach out with any questions about creating leverage, running independent teams, or building systems—I’d love to help!
PPS… Did you know that most messages need to be repeated seven times to stick? In the previous issue, I wrote about the The Broken Record Formula. Don’t miss this issue if you’re ready to lead with precision.
PPPS… I ran a survey on Threads and discovered that many people are eager to learn more about entrepreneurship and how AI makes starting a startup easier than ever. So, I launched a new newsletter, Making of a Maker, where I’ll share tips on Startups, AI, and the path to becoming an Indie Hacker.