I was introduced to the brilliantly named Midwit Meme while listening to Chris Williamson’s Modern Wisdom podcast. Since then, I’ve had so much fun with it—it’s one of those memes that’s both a great share and actually worth a thought or two.
If you haven’t seen it, the Midwit Meme is a play on the IQ Bell Curve. It typically features three characters—one on the left (the “dimwit”), one in the middle (the “midwit”), and one on the right (the “enlightened genius”). The joke? The two extremes tend to arrive at the same conclusion, while the midwit overcomplicates things.
Take decision-making:
• The dimwit says: Just do it.
• The midwit overthinks, writes a 20-page strategy doc, second-guesses everything.
• The genius? Just do it.
Or trusting instincts:
• The dimwit: “It worked for my Gran, so it’ll work for me.”
• The midwit: “I need a source for that.”
• The genius: “Evolutionary pressure has refined human instincts over millennia. Trust them.”
What’s the Lesson?
We’ve all been the midwit. Overcomplicating, overanalysing, and getting lost in the weeds when the answer is often right in front of us. In leadership, decision-making, and even life, simplicity often wins.
It’s why experienced leaders cut through noise and focus on what really matters. As Napoleon (a historical expert in making bold moves) put it:
“The torment of precautions often exceeds the dangers to be avoided. It is sometimes better to abandon one’s self to destiny.”
Or, as the dimwit might say… “If you think it’s the right thing, do it.”
So, is there a situation where you might be overthinking when a simple, clear answer is staring you in the face?
Definitely worth a share.
Andy.