In the business world, there’s an unwritten rule that to maximize survival and longevity (I’m still talking about being in business), you need to have at least five (5) products to offer. The number five can also apply to the number of divisions or market segments targeted by the company. In short, “five” products, divisions or market segments balances momentum and “guarantees” long-term success.
The impact of such a strategy is easy to understand. If at any time one division is in trouble, the other four will get the company through without too much trouble. This is why, for example, Bombardier makes several types of aircraft and Quebecor has several divisions ranging from cable to different types of media.
So much for this business principle.
In our personal lives, the same principle can be applied. If you want to be happy and maximize your longevity of “happiness”, I recommend the “five projects” principle. These can be personal or professional projects, or a mixture of both. Having several “things” to stimulate your thinking keeps you busy instead of preoccupied.
Being mentally busy can make the difference between peace of mind or existential angst. The theory even goes that the more projects you have going on, the happier you are. The number five is just the starting point for lasting happiness. Is one of your projects coming to an end? You need to start another one quickly. It’s a spinning wheel and it’s fun.
The principle is simple. The mind is constantly thinking, and it’s extremely difficult to stop it. When your mind is busy making plans, thinking of solutions and having a vision of how your projects will turn out, it won’t have time to worry about situations that “could” potentially happen.
It works regardless of your age or social status. Whether you’re working or even retired, if you have five projects (sometimes more) you’re sure to be fulfilled.
For example: I recently met a very happy businessman who is 1- developing his business, 2- preparing to build a block of flats, 3- playing music on the weekends, 4- renovating his condo in Florida, 5- a new grandfather who takes care of his children once a week.
Here’s another one: I also know a very happy retiree who: 1- volunteers once a week at the hospital, 2- plays golf every Wednesday, 3- takes a course at the university, 4- meets with her group of friends every week, 5- sits on the board of directors of her condo building.
I’m sure you also know these people who seem to have it easy. In reality, it may be because they have learned to fill their lives with different projects that stimulate them.
No matter what your current situation is, if you are too worried about what might happen to you, try the concept of having five (5) projects in motion. You’ll find that you’re closer to happiness than you think.
I have mine (and more). What are yours?
