Synergy Spinnergy: The Science of Overwhelm

In the scenario with 3 dots, you have 3 relationships. With 4 dots, you have 6 relationships. This, I believe, is a simple way to explain the concept of "overwhelm" to people who just don't get it.

Don't get me wrong, I like synergy as much as the next guy does. But there can be positive or negative synergy, depending on the situation. In business or creative situations, synergy can be positive. You may have noticed how many businesses have 4 or more partners. If 4 is the 'magic' number, it makes sense. Synergy would kick in and optimize what each individual brings to that business.

Now, back to the subject of 'overwhelm.' People who tend to think in 'straight lines' aren't worried about what comes next, because the dots can only be connected in one way when you have a straight line. If something unexpected comes up, they can usually fit it into their schedule, perhaps by eliminating or rescheduling something else, and proceed with their day. People who don't have their 'dots in a row' see all kinds of relationships and possibilities. It can be an advantage - this is how things are invented! But while it's great if you're trying to invent something, it does not really help you do laundry.

With so many relationships, on a list of six chores, we see much more than those six chores. I don't know how much more we see, but it's more than I have fingers. Just trying to figure out THE ORDER in which to do those things can drive a person to play video games! And you don't even want to get me started on the matter of changing plans and "picking up where you left off." There is no such thing! If plans are changed once the day is in motion, the momentum is completely lost. "Picking up where you left off" is like starting over from the beginning, except that now there is less time!

If you are wondering what the solution is, try taking a fresh look at your approach, or as much as possible, have other people do the things you have difficulty with. You've got to find what works for you, whether it's "normal" or not. And remember that momentum can overcome negative synergy. Keeping up is easier than starting over. But I'm one to talk. What do I have on my to-do list today? Burn the house down. It works for me, and I think I can get it done in 3 easy steps.