There are many tools available to create something.  Given the multitude of choices, it can be tough at times to figure out what to use to develop a new product, more effectively communicate a message, or improve a relationship with a customer on the other side of the planet.  The best tools are often the simplest and they are most useful when automating a repeatable process.

Regardless of the sophistication of the tool, how one uses it will often determine success or failure in what someone is trying to accomplish.  I have found that the people that are best able to use a tool are those that have a good sense of what they want to achieve and aren’t relying necessarily on its features to help them succeed.  An abundance of tools (with an abundance of features) is a modern problem and doesn’t necessarily equate to better products or better solutions.

The interesting thing about creativity is that it tends to thrive when the access to resources and tools are scarce.  When one is forced to think through a problem with only the resources around them, they may end up with a more effective and relevant product.  This is because the solution is developed out of the context in which it resided.

In an age of abundance, think about how to limit your exposure to things that serve as distractions.  You may find that you need less than you think to achieve your goals.