We often hear the phrase, “Winning is for everyone.” It’s a well-meaning notion that fuels our belief in the limitless potential we all possess. Here, I will be taking a different perspective; one that might help you. So, what if winning isn’t for everyone? What if the truth lies in understanding that while we are all capable of winning, not everyone will walk the same path that leads there?
To unpack this, we need to explore the contrast between two different life strategies: the “more” path and the “less” path. Most of us are conditioned to follow the “more” path, thinking that more means better. More strategies, more goals, more distractions to juggle. But for those who consistently win—whether in business, sports, or personal growth—it’s often the commitment to “less” that paves the way to success.
The Illusion of “More”
From an early age, we are taught that achievement is tied to doing more. Society convinces us that if we add more to our plates—more responsibilities, more activities, more connections—we will reach our goals faster. But this “more” mode can easily trap us in a cycle of constant busyness without meaningful progress.
Take the example of Steve Jobs. The Apple co-founder was known for his minimalist philosophy, focusing on fewer products but refining them to perfection. When Jobs returned to Apple in 1997 after being ousted years earlier, the company was in disarray. Apple had dozens of product lines, each with countless variations, leading to confusion and lackluster results. Jobs famously slashed Apple’s product line down to just four, focusing on the essentials. This decision to do “less” ultimately allowed Apple to achieve “more” and become the tech powerhouse it is today.
The idea that “less is more” stands in direct opposition to what most of us grow up believing. And that’s where many people get stuck—in the clutter of “more.”
The Power of “Less”
When we switch to the “less” mindset, we create space for what truly matters. “Less” isn’t about doing nothing or aiming low—it’s about cutting through the noise to focus on what moves the needle forward. For the driven few who succeed consistently, the commitment to “less” creates room for deep focus on what matters most.
Take Marie Kondo, for example. The organizational expert rose to fame with her KonMari Method, teaching people to declutter their lives by only keeping what “sparks joy.” While Kondo’s method is often applied to physical spaces, the principle applies equally to time management and life priorities. By letting go of what doesn’t serve us, we free up space to pursue our true passions and win in the areas that matter.
For high performers, this principle is crucial. They know that doing less of what doesn’t matter allows them to achieve more of what does. Whether it’s eliminating unnecessary meetings, cutting down on social media scrolling, or saying “no” to projects that don’t align with their goals, doing less enables them to channel their energy into the right direction.
Real-Life Examples: Winning by Doing Less
1. Warren Buffett’s Focus on Few Investments
Billionaire investor Warren Buffett is a prime example of someone who practices the “less is more” philosophy. While many investors diversify their portfolios across hundreds of stocks, Buffett is known for his highly concentrated investments. He famously said, “Diversification is protection against ignorance.” Instead, Buffett focuses on a few key companies that he deeply understands, allowing him to achieve extraordinary success by doing less but doing it with exceptional focus.
2. Serena Williams and Ruthless Prioritization
Tennis icon Serena Williams has dominated her sport by consistently prioritizing her health, mental fitness, and specific goals. In her quest to become one of the greatest athletes of all time, Williams has often opted for a simplified approach, shedding distractions and maintaining a laser focus on her training. By saying “no” to everything that doesn’t serve her core goals, she has been able to achieve unprecedented success.
3. Bill Gates’ Focus Weeks
Bill Gates, the co-founder of Microsoft, uses a practice called “Think Weeks” to step away from the noise of everyday business operations. Twice a year, Gates isolates himself in a cabin, disconnected from the world, to focus solely on reading and thinking about big ideas. By clearing away distractions, Gates creates an environment for creative breakthroughs. This focus on less—less distraction, less external input—has led to some of his most impactful ideas.
The “More” Trap: Where Are You Stuck?
Now, it’s time to reflect: Where in your life are you stuck in “more mode”?
Are you drowning in too many projects? Spending too much time scrolling through social media? Juggling too many goals at once? These activities can feel productive on the surface, but they often create a sense of overwhelm and scattered focus. The “more” trap convinces us that if we just add more to our plates, we’ll eventually get ahead. But in reality, this only keeps us spinning our wheels.
By identifying where you’re doing too much, you can start making room for what truly matters. Whether it’s in your career, relationships, or personal growth, clarity comes when you remove what doesn’t serve you.
The Path to Winning: Embracing “Less”
So how do we shift from the “more” mindset to the “less” mindset?
- Identify the Distractions: Take stock of everything that occupies your time and energy. What are the distractions that don’t move you closer to your goals? This could be anything from excessive meetings to unproductive habits. Once identified, eliminate or reduce these distractions.
- Focus on the Fundamentals: What are the core actions that yield the most results in your life? Whether it’s investing in personal relationships, honing a specific skill, or taking care of your health, focus on doing fewer things but doing them better.
- Create Space for Creativity and Reflection: Like Bill Gates’ “Think Weeks,” carve out time in your schedule for uninterrupted thinking, planning, and creative work. By removing the noise of daily distractions, you allow space for your best ideas to flourish.
- Prioritize Rest and Recovery: High achievers know that rest is not a luxury—it’s essential for long-term success. Incorporate moments of stillness into your day, whether through meditation, exercise, or downtime, to recharge and gain clarity.
Conclusion: Reconsider Winning by Doing Less
Winning isn’t about cramming more into your schedule, chasing every opportunity, or being constantly busy. It’s about the discipline of focusing on fewer things and doing them with intention and excellence. When we strip away the noise, we discover that doing less can unlock the space for more—more success, more fulfillment, and more impact.
By adopting this mindset, you free yourself from the traps of distraction and busyness, stepping onto the path of clarity and purpose. Remember, it’s not about doing everything—it’s about doing the right things with focus and precision. When you embrace the “less” path, you open yourself up to winning in ways you never imagined.
Bob Fagan has just published “The Little Book of Questions That Matter — A Lifetime Companion For Transforming Your Life.” It is available on Amazon.
