The Art of Balancing Success and Contentment: Applying the 85% Rule and Swedish Philosophy of Lagom

The Art of Balancing Success and Contentment: Applying the 85% Rule and Swedish Philosophy of Lagom

In our pursuit of growth and improvement, we are often faced with a dilemma. On one hand, if we are always successful, we may struggle to identify areas where we can further enhance our skills or knowledge. On the other hand, if we constantly fail, we may become discouraged and miss out on the valuable lessons that come from understanding what works. Striking a balance between these two extremes is essential for effective learning and personal development.

Scott H Young, a prominent learning expert, introduces us to the concept of the 85% Rule. According to this rule, if we aim for a success rate of 85% in our endeavors, we can strike the perfect balance between success and failure. This approach allows us to experience enough failures to learn from them, while also ensuring a sufficient number of successes to build confidence and motivation. By embracing the 85% Rule, we can avoid the pitfalls of both constant success and perpetual failure.

Interestingly, the Swedish philosophy of lagom echoes the principles of the 85% Rule. Lagom, which translates to "just the right amount," emphasizes finding balance and moderation in all aspects of life. It encourages us to recognize when enough is enough, rather than constantly striving for more. In a society that often glorifies excess, lagom reminds us to appreciate the beauty of simplicity and contentment.

In essence, the 85% Rule and lagom share a common thread - they both advocate for a mindset that embraces balance and seeks satisfaction in moderation. By incorporating elements of both approaches into our lives, we can cultivate a harmonious existence that allows for growth, learning, and contentment.

One essential aspect of both the 85% Rule and lagom is the recognition that our actions have consequences that extend beyond ourselves. Lagom emphasizes the idea of "fair use," reminding us to consider how our choices impact others. Similarly, the 85% Rule encourages us to reflect on the lessons we can learn from our failures and successes, not just for our own benefit but also to contribute positively to the world around us. By adopting this perspective, we can develop a sense of responsibility and empathy, making us more mindful of our actions and their ripple effects.

In a society that often equates success with material possessions and external achievements, both the 85% Rule and lagom challenge us to redefine our notions of fulfillment. They remind us that true satisfaction lies in finding contentment in the "just right" rather than relentlessly pursuing more. In a world that constantly bombards us with messages of "bigger is better," embracing the principles of the 85% Rule and lagom can serve as a powerful antidote to the never-ending chase for more.

To apply these principles to our own lives, here are three actionable pieces of advice:

• 1. Embrace failures as learning opportunities: Instead of viewing failure as a setback, see it as a chance to gain valuable insights and grow. By analyzing what went wrong and learning from our mistakes, we can refine our approach and increase our chances of success in the future.

• 2. Practice mindful moderation: Take a step back and evaluate different areas of your life - work, relationships, health, hobbies, and personal growth. Identify areas where you may be overextending yourself or neglecting important aspects. Strive for balance and moderation in each domain, ensuring that you allocate enough time and energy to nurture all aspects of your life.

• 3. Cultivate gratitude for the present: Instead of constantly yearning for more, take a moment to appreciate what you already have. Practice gratitude for the "just right" moments in life, whether it's a small accomplishment, a meaningful connection, or a moment of peace and contentment. By focusing on the present and finding joy in the simple pleasures, you can cultivate a sense of fulfillment and reduce the need to constantly chase after more.

In conclusion, the 85% Rule and the Swedish philosophy of lagom offer valuable insights into finding the delicate balance between success and contentment. By embracing the principles of both approaches, we can navigate the complexities of personal growth, learning, and fulfillment. As we apply these principles to our lives, let us remember the importance of learning from failures, practicing moderation, and cultivating gratitude for the present. In doing so, we can embark on a journey towards a more balanced and fulfilling existence.