It’s normal for people to have a set of invisible rules that guide them every day, helping them make decisions, solve problems, and handle the complexities of life.
These laws, borne out of human wisdom and shared experiences, offer practical advice for dealing with challenges, making decisions, and pursuing success.
The 5 most famous laws
Here are five of the most famous laws that you might already know and how they relate to everyday life, friendships, and other day-to-day situations.
1. Murphy’s law: “The more you fear something happening, the more likely it is to occur.”
Murphy’s Law reminds us of the power of positive thinking and preparation. It’s usually interpreted to mean that if you’re overly concerned or anxious about something going wrong, you might inadvertently cause it to happen through your actions or inaction.
In friendships, worrying excessively about a misunderstanding might prevent you from communicating openly and resolving the issue.
2. Kidlin’ Law: “If you write a problem down clearly and specifically, you’ve solved half of it.”
The essence of Kidlin’s Law is in the power of clarity and definition. By articulating a problem clearly, you’re already on your way to understanding it better and finding a solution. This is incredibly useful when you’re dealing with complex problems. Writing down what you don’t understand can help you study more effectively and come up with a solution. Jotting down the pros and cons of a decision can illuminate the best choice.
3. Gilbert Law: “When you take on a task, it’s your responsibility to find the best way to do it to achieve the desired results.”
Gilbert Law encourages ownership and initiative. It tells us that success depends on our willingness to take responsibility for our actions and to seek out the best methods to achieve our goals. In life, it might involve taking the initiative to plan activities that everyone will enjoy.
4. Wilson Law: “If you prioritise knowledge and intelligence, money will follow.”
Wilson’s Law highlights the value of education and learning as pathways to success. It suggests that by focusing on gaining knowledge and honing your intelligence, financial success will naturally come as a byproduct of these efforts. This law applies to everyday life, encouraging lifelong learning and curiosity.
5. Falkland Law: “If you don’t have to decide on something, then don’t decide.”
Falkland Law advises on the virtue of patience and timing in decision-making. Sometimes, the best decision is to wait until more information is available or until you’re more certain of what you want. This means not rushing into decisions that you’re not ready to make.
As you move forward, consider what “personal laws” guide you and how you might incorporate these famous maxims into your own life’s rulebook. Reflecting on these principles can provide valuable insights into how we approach challenges, relationships, and avoid potential pitfalls.
