If you have a teenager, a friend with a teen, or have seen Netflix trending shows, you’ve seen that the story of the Menendez Bros. is back with a new docu-drama series.
It’s pretty Hollywood-ed up, so I had to stop watching as I prefer the stories to be more accurate.
But, one of the things that struck me were the rules by which the parents made the boys live – a lot of which are absolutely insane.
If you’re anything like me, rules were not your jam growing up (although, I did adhere to the rule about not murdering my parents, so I did follow some).
In fact, one could accuse me of being a bit of a contrarian who zigged when most zagged – that’s probably why I became an entrepreneur.
Now, as a Dad, I realize most of the rules I grew up with were to keep me safe (and alive in some instances:).
And to salvage my parents’ sanity.
Inasmuch as I hated rules back then…I now fully realize how rules can set us free…a counterintuitive statement I never thought would come from me.
Rules can protect us from our biggest weaknesses, which gives us the best chance at a healthy, fit life.
Stick with me…
When we build rules, they allow us to make ONE decision.
Here are a few rules I have that completely replace any thought or decision:
“Hey Jeff, do you want to hit happy hour and have a few cold suds?”
“No thanks, I don’t drink during the week.”
Without my rule of not indulging in beers during the week, I would have to waste energy deciding whether or not I should every time somebody asks me.
Eventually, I would cave.
However, when I say, “No thanks, I don’t drink during the week,” it’s black and white.
There’s no decision to make.
I have a rule.
And I have to follow it.
My workout rule: Under no circumstances will I miss two in a row. Clients ask me to play golf a lot, and I’ll gladly miss a workout – no big deal. I simply catch up the following day.
My travel rule: I always buy a sticker from the place where I’m visiting. And slap it on a cooler that looks like a Bugs Bunny suitcase. Have fun with it!
What are your rules?
And are they your rules?
What works for other people is what works for other people.
Especially if their rules are “I don’t eat carbs.”
No thanks.
Never having a cold beer or pizza for the rest of my days sounds miserable.
I’d love to hear what rules you’ve put into place that help take decisions off your plate.
STAY STRONG,
Jeff
PS – If you need help creating rules that work for you to get you into shape, and keep you there…
Then, I highly recommend you join us in the 18STRONG Membership.