Life, with all its complexity and unpredictability, often feels like it runs on an intricate set of systems—rules and patterns that govern how things operate. The “law of average” is a principle that suggests these systems are designed to work for as many people as possible. In other words, they are built around the idea of serving the average individual. While this concept can sometimes feel limiting, it also provides insight into how we can navigate life effectively. By understanding when to modify the system and when to go with the flow, we can craft a life that’s both intentional and fulfilling.
When to Modify the System
The great game of life is about understanding how to play the game. Some moments call for a bold rewrite of the rules, while others require simply riding the current. But here’s the thing: too much modification can make life unnecessarily hard. It’s like swimming upstream—struggling against natural forces and burning all your energy in the process. While it’s important to challenge norms and push boundaries, there’s a fine line between modification and frustration.
At times, it’s better to go with the flow, conserving your energy for when it really matters. Think of it like rowing downstream. You still need to steer, but you don’t need to fight the current every moment. Life often requires patience and an understanding of when to conserve your efforts for more meaningful change.
On the flip side, too little modification can render life mundane. If you never question the system or try to carve out your own path, you risk becoming just another cog in the machine. In striving to fit in, you might lose your individuality and sense of purpose. Life becomes a routine, a predictable cycle. While stability has its place, it’s easy to lose the excitement and uniqueness of life when you follow a path laid out by others.
The Average System
Let’s talk about the idea of “average.” In his book, the author highlights a poignant statement: “The many systems you encounter throughout life are designed for average people. If you want average results, follow an average plan.” This isn’t meant to sound harsh—it’s simply a reflection of how most systems are structured. From school curriculums to corporate HR policies, these systems are crafted to accommodate the majority. They’re designed to serve the needs of as many people as possible, which often means they default to the most common denominator.
Think about it—if you’re running a large organization, you’re tasked with creating policies that fit the broadest spectrum of employees. Rules that work for one person might not work for someone else, but in order to maintain order and efficiency, policies must cater to the middle ground. In this sense, the system operates on average standards. It’s a necessary compromise for large-scale function.
But what happens if you don’t want to be average? If you have aspirations that go beyond the status quo, you must acknowledge that the average path won’t get you there. Average results come from average actions, and if you want something extraordinary, you have to follow different rules—or even make up your own.
The Power of Breaking Away
The principle of “average” also applies to personal finance, a topic that has sparked many debates. In a previous post, I discussed how following traditional financial advice, which often caters to the masses, doesn’t always lead to the best results for individuals with specific financial goals. One reader commented, “You’re really shaking things up here,” to which I replied, “Good! That’s the goal.”
Why? Because challenging the average approach can be liberating. When you stop following the cookie-cutter solutions and start crafting your own path, you open up a world of possibilities. This doesn’t mean you should be reckless or make decisions without thoughtful consideration. It means understanding that the systems in place might not always align with your needs—and that’s okay.
For example, in personal finance, the average advice might encourage you to follow a standardized savings plan, focus on debt reduction, and invest conservatively. While these are good practices for many, they might not lead to the best outcome for someone with a more entrepreneurial mindset or a desire to build wealth rapidly. To go beyond the average, you have to be willing to take calculated risks, make unconventional choices, and sometimes question the status quo.
Crafting Your Own Path
When it comes to life, the key is knowing when to accept the system as it is and when to rewrite the rules. There’s nothing inherently wrong with following the mainstream, but it’s important to recognize that you have options. The world doesn’t require you to follow the average route, and often, stepping off the beaten path is where you find the greatest growth.
To break free from the average, start by identifying the areas in your life where you’ve unconsciously accepted the system without question. Do you follow societal expectations when it comes to career choices, relationships, or finances simply because it’s the norm? If so, ask yourself: Is this the best path for me?
If the answer is no, then it’s time for modification. And this doesn’t have to be a dramatic, overnight change. Sometimes the smallest shift in thinking can lead to profound results. Maybe you find a more fulfilling career path that aligns with your passions, or perhaps you approach your finances with an entirely new strategy that allows you to invest in ways that are unconventional but effective.
Conclusion: The Dance Between Modification and Flow
Life is full of systems, but not all systems are created equal. Some work in your favor, while others constrain your potential. The challenge, then, is figuring out when to push against the grain and when to let the current carry you forward. Too much resistance can leave you exhausted and stuck, while too little can make you lose sight of your true potential.
By understanding the law of average, you can navigate life with greater purpose. You’ll learn to recognize when it’s time to accept things as they are and when it’s time to rewrite the rules to suit your unique path. In the end, life isn’t about fitting into a mold—it’s about finding your own rhythm in the systems around you, tweaking them as necessary, and knowing when to go with the flow.
