#27: The Science of Subtraction

Adding an extra dose of behavioral science to your week with our series In a Nutshell— a collection of behavioral science principles, explained in 150 words or less, written weekly by CUBIC director Allison Zelkowitz.

Try to recall your 2023 goal setting conversation with your boss. Following this conversation, did you add any objectives or activities? 

Now, on the other hand, did you remove any?

My guess is that you added more than you removed.

Recent research from the behavioral sciences, detailed in Subtraction: The Untapped Science of Less has revealed that the human brain defaults to adding when trying to improve systems, ideas, or our own lives; we overlook the fact that removing can lead to positive change. This may be one reason for our bursting calendars and complex programs and processes – subtraction either doesn’t occur to us, or feels more challenging.

As teams and offices work on plans for 2024, it may be worth deliberately subtracting components that are not essential. And next time you review your 2023 objectives, consider cutting just one thing, and enjoy the relief and added focus that brings.