Why is simple so hard?

I was inspired by a conversation with a colleague, to write about this very topic.  Why do we tend to add complexity?  In other words, why is simple so darn hard?  We appreciate it, we recognize it when we see it, we even admire it – but aspire to it as an integral thing, nope, that’s just not natural behavior – or so it seems. 

I’d like to say I’m exempt from such bewildering behavior but I’m not.  I remind myself daily, like my very own mantra, how could I do this simpler, clearer, easier? 

So, not being an expert, I can merely pontificate on the potential causes – Is it human nature?  History might well bear out the truth in that.  My thought is that it has something to do with being an adult or the process of becoming an adult.  Children can be quite direct and simple with veritable effortless glee.  So I wonder if it has something to do with the socialization process that forces us to add complexity rather than automatically strive for the simpler the better.

But enough about me and what I think!  I’m far more curious to learn what you think about this topic.  Leave a comment and let us all know why you think simple is so hard.