We have all heard the phrase, keep it simple, stupid. I promise you, it was not the inspiration for this blog – well, the simple part was  – not the stupid part.

Keep it Simple, Clear & Uniquely Yours

However, I do have a passion for making things simple. I have been playing around with an idea on how best to use that passion.

In a previous post, I confessed I am no engineer when it comes to inventing things. But, I am a writer, so here is my idea.

A Different Bucket List

Make a list of things that you wish were simple to understand – sky’s the limit.

It could be something written, like health care legislation, a new product with a lousy user manual or a task that should be easier.

Then go about making it simple. I would search out experts for answers. Who knows, there may already be something out there. I would share what I find or create a simple version.

My Starter List

Here are a few ideas that made it to my list.

1. Cross-Reference Mailing List – I have social media gurus I follow. It drives me crazy when they get together to produce a seminar and I receive the Announcement email, the Limited-time Offer email, the Time is Running Out email, and so on, from every SM guru presenting at the seminar.

Wouldn’t it be nice if they could merge their mailing list so you don’t receive a bazillion emails promoting the same thing? All it does is tick you off. So, is there a simple way to do that?

2. WordPress Basics – I am sure there are some good resources out there about how to set up a WordPress blog. So far, the ones I have seen are not basic enough. There are new bloggers every day. There is no explanation for something as basic as the difference between an accordion and flow sidebar.

3. Health Care Coverage – Okay, this is my geeky, self-interest. It comes from 30+ years in employee benefits and health insurance. Unlike many forms of insurance, health insurance is often way too complicated. It prompted me to create my Simply stated health care blog, but I’d like to use my technical knowledge more than I do to help explain things for those without 30+ years in the industry.

4. Basic Computer Guide – This idea comes from helping my 87-year-old mother with her computer. I love the fact that she got her first computer at age 85. She has come a long way from the days when she moved her mouse like it would bite back. I created a “how-to” for her when she first started that had screen shots and step-by-step instructions. We’re talking basic with a capital B. I’d like to expand that idea.

What’s Your List?

I would love your comments, thoughts, and ideas. What drives you crazy? What has you shouting, “There has to be a simpler way”? Let’s see if we can get a Keep it Simple campaign going where we can share what we find.

iStock Photo credit: rubenhi