Principles before Methods.

"As to methods, there may be a million and then some, but principles are few. The man who grasps principles can successfully select his own methods. The man who tries methods, ignoring principles is sure to have trouble"
Ralph Waldo Emerson

I absolutely love quotes. The way they can capture such essence and at times express things we can only feel. Pure simplicity. The above quote is very important to me in life and business. And it should be to you too. The truth is, the varying degree of importance will depend on personality type, but if you have not considered this (on a conscious or subconscious level), please do so now.

So what’s the big deal? Lets start with definitions. My chosen ones which best suit this case are as follows:

Method: A means or manner of procedure, especially a regular and systematic way of accomplishing something.

Principle: a basic generalization that is accepted as true and that can be used as a basis for reasoning or conduct.

Methods are often put on a pedestal with regards to goal accomplishment. Indeed, to accomplish any goal, one must employ methodology at some point, as most goals require consistent application of effort. But methods are limited as they cannot give insight into goals. There is no definite underlying correlation between methods and goals. It is far too subjective and open to infinite interpretation. This does not sound like a solid platform to me.

Methods exist to deliver efficiency. While one method can be perfected and performed with eyes closed, hands tied behind back, and ice cold water trickling down one’s spine; how is this ideal when tomorrow, a refined version of this method may emerge? Does one proceed to simple abandon the old method and begin refining the new one? Or does one stick with the old method, because of habit and ignore the potential benefits and improvement of the new method? Whatever the choice, what happens when an even newer method emerges? Rest assured, as long as man exists, newer methods to accomplish tasks will always emerge, the cycle will not end. Who can put an end to this madness?

Enter my man principles. Principles are the police that keep methods in check! Principles are directly tied to goals. In terms of hierarchy, goals come first, then principles and then methods. Examine the analogy:

A goal is a destination. A principle is a means of travel. A method is a vehicle.

Principles serve many purposes. Important here is the role of principles as a filterer of methods. For example, a principle to “keep everything simple” quickly eliminates numerous methods which entail complicated techniques and procedures. Likewise a principle to “always maintain the best work standards” abolishes methods which cut corners as well as quick fixes! I hope you are getting the picture. With solid principles, it is ok to refine and change methods, as long as they are allowed by your principles.

Some key points about principles
- Principles are based on your character and personality.
- They must be straightforward, and have only one possible interpretation
- They must be absolute
- They should be closely tied to your goals and following them should lead to accomplishment.
- It is ok to adopt principles of peers and role models as long as they align with your goals.
- If one maintains close friendship with someone whose principles vary significantly, one of the 2 things happens: they take on yours or you take on theirs.
- Thus, guard your principles.
- Write down your principles and read them often. Check that your methods and actions are in line with your principles.
- Sticking to your principles makes decisions much easier.
- You cannot have conflicting principles.
- Set principles for areas of your life: work, love life, fun, children, knowledge etc and try to limit it to a maximum 2 principles per area. Stick to 1 if possible.

Remember, define your principles and then select your methods.