You know those rules you follow every day just because you feel like you should? No one told you that these were the rules, and you don’t even question them, you just know that they are. These are Immutable Laws, and they’re created by your ethics, core values, and a measure of self-assigned law.
These are the rules we assign to ourselves, almost subconsciously, based on what we feel is right and wrong or what makes us happy and what doesn’t. These are your rules for life, and they almost never change. If they do change, it will happen so gradually that if you ever do notice, the change will already just make sense to you.
Mom Laws
Immutable Laws were the topic of our latest Beyond the Books session. If you’re new to the blog or just need a reminder, Beyond the Books is the newest program I created for the women clientele of my business, bookskeep. We get together once a month to talk about issues women business owners struggle with and to support each other.
As moms, these immutable laws can help us get through the day. When the toddler won’t keep clothes on and is into all the cabinets while you try to mop up the milk the baby just spit up into the floor, your immutable laws guide you. They are with you through the ups and downs and help you get through both.
Think of Immutable Laws as your “spine”. They keep you upright and walking straight. Just like a spine, your laws need to be in alignment or else you’ll begin to experience the aches and pains of being out of whack.
Business Laws
Since these are rules that we create without really knowing it, they live in the background of our minds. However, as a business owner, making them front and center and a part of your daily thought process can help you make better decisions. So, take some time to think about your laws.
The best way I have found to do this is to look for common threads as you answer the following questions.
What characteristics you’re seeking in clients or relationships.
What do you take pride in?
What do clients value about doing business with you?
How do you serve or give back?
Stop and ask yourself why something made you feel good or bad.
Once you evaluate your answers, it’s a lot easier to create your set of Immutable Laws.
Immutable Law Exercise
There is a great exercise for defining immutable laws in chapter 5 of my book, Motherhood, Apple Pie, and All That Happy Horseshit. It’s quick, about twenty minutes, and will quickly become your filter to help you say Yes or No as you make decisions to build the life you desire and grow your business. If you’re not sure where to start or would just like some guidelines, grab a copy of my book and complete this activity so you can benefit from your Immutable Laws starting today.
