/via-negativa

<objective> Apply via negativa to $ARGUMENTS (or the current discussion if no arguments provided).

Instead of asking "What should I add?", ask "What should I remove?" Subtraction often beats addition. </objective>

<process> 1. State the current situation or goal 2. List everything currently present (activities, features, commitments, beliefs) 3. For each item, ask: "Does removing this improve the outcome?" 4. Identify what to stop, eliminate, or say no to 5. Describe the improved state after subtraction </process>

<output_format> Current State: [What exists now - activities, features, commitments]

Subtraction Candidates:

• [Item]: Remove because [reason] → Impact: [what improves]
• [Item]: Remove because [reason] → Impact: [what improves]
• [Item]: Remove because [reason] → Impact: [what improves]

Keep (Passed the Test):

• [Item]: Keep because [genuine value]

After Subtraction: [Description of leaner, better state]

What to Say No To: [Future additions to reject] </output_format>

<success_criteria>

• Identifies genuine bloat vs. essential elements
• Removes without breaking core function
• Creates space and simplicity
• Reduces maintenance burden
• Improves by doing less, not more </success_criteria>