Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the importance of "minimalist thinking" in the workplace, suggesting that simplifying goals, relationships, and emotions can lead to greater efficiency and success in professional settings [3][12][56] Group 1: Goal Simplification - Having too many goals increases cognitive load and decreases efficiency, leading to poorer outcomes [7][8] - Steve Jobs' return to Apple in 1997 exemplifies this principle; he cut 90% of the company's products to focus on a few core items, which ultimately revived the company [9][11][14] - Individuals should focus on mastering one area rather than spreading themselves too thin across multiple skills, as demonstrated by a friend's experience at Alibaba [19][21] Group 2: Relationship Simplification - Workplace dynamics often lead individuals to focus excessively on interpersonal relationships rather than on task completion, which can be counterproductive [27][30] - The story of Google's research institute in India illustrates how prioritizing relationships over research can lead to stagnation and obsolescence [28][30] - Successful professionals prioritize their work and capabilities over social maneuvering, as seen in the example of a character from a drama who was chosen for a leadership position based on merit rather than connections [31][34] Group 3: Emotional Simplification - Managing emotions effectively is crucial for maintaining focus on important tasks, as illustrated by the experiences of individuals dealing with difficult supervisors [42][46] - The concept of "flow" in work is linked to having an ordered mind free from unnecessary emotions, allowing for deeper engagement in tasks [53][55] - The article concludes that by eliminating excess emotions and distractions, individuals can enhance their creativity and productivity in their professional lives [58][59]