Murphy’s Law is a old popular saying that states, “Anything that can go wrong, will go wrong.” This saying is a bit humorous but also a cynical observation that things will go awry and unexpected outcomes will occur at the most inconvenient time.
An example is when your car breaks down right before you have to drive to a job interview. Or when your oven takes a crap right before you have family over for the holidays.
The idea is that if there’s a possibility for something to turn out poorly, it’s likely to happen sooner or later. The next idea is to figure out how to be prepared for these situations when they happen.
A Quick History Lesson
Murphy’s law started back in the 1940s when Edward A. Murphy Jr. expressed this statement while he worked on different projects. He used this statement to highlight the importance of considering all possibilities, even the unlikely ones. The saying can get a bad rap because of the doom it brings, but it needs to be use as powerful tool that it is.
Understanding the Power
When you know sh!t can it the fan, you can plan for it. So start expecting things like the washer and dryer burning out. If one tire is bad, most likely all four are. Your roof springs a leak. If you have a boss, they will fire you.
Now what will that look like in your life. Use Murphy’s Law to anticipate unexpected matters. Also know that no matter how meticulous we plan, there is always a chance for things to take an unexpected turn. Using Murphy’s Law for the good, prepares us for situations and allows us to adapt quickly when they do happen.
The application is the same throughout. Accepting the inevitable unexpected events empowers individuals to proactively plan for BS scenarios.
Embrace the Suck and Prepare
On a personal level, embracing Murphy’s Law requires a mindset shift. Rather than worry about unexpected events, develop resilience. Be the person who accepts the suck and uses setbacks as a learning experience. Review the event you went through, and learn how you can prevent and protect your future from that event again.
Preparation encourages the acceptance of setbacks. No one individual will inherit the same risks as another. Each of us has to prepare for our own situations. If you have a significant other, some of the things will be the same and you can tackle them together.
Like mentioned before, this also requires learning. Listen to other people and their stories. People love to play the victim and tell them. Learn from your own mistakes.
As you grow old, responsibilities change. Be prepared. If you are young, know that life kicks ya in the nuts sometimes. Be prepared the best you can be.
Lastly
Ask questions. Be open and honest with those you are around the most. Talk to them about Murphy’s Law. I’m sure everyone has a story or two they could tell. If a raging storm has ever crossed your path, you have a story.
Use Murphy’s Law and know no plan is bullet proof. Instead of fear, embrace it, plan for it the best you can and move one. This adaptable approach to life allows us to breath when challenge hits. Empower your mind and always have Murphy’s Law in the back as you acknowledge the unpredictability of life. This will allow you to tackle whatever comes our way.