In Matthew McConaughey’s book “Green Lights” he has a section titled “Conservative Early, Liberal Late.” This has nothing to do with politics and everything to do with life mapping. It is my favorite section of the book. It gives a nod to rules and constraints, which if you have read any of these blog entries you would know I dearly love-rules and constraints.

It’s not to lead a pious or chaste life necessarily. It’s to live a life of space created by you and only you. I want to live in the movie I write and direct. It’s taking the time to define yourself and the life you want to lead. It’s taking the clay and molding it into something of your choosing. In this entry I will explore the first of the series of syllogisms offered by McConaughey.

Syllogism 1-”Create Structure So You Can Have Freedom”

This is genius. It echos the wisdom of retired Navy Seal and best selling author and consultant Jacko Willink. Jacko has famously said, “Discipline equals freedom.” More correct he could not be.

It’s structure to perform those tasks that are necessary that free us to go play. If my duties as an employee, father, husband or friend are scattered on the floor like a bunch of run away marbles they are likely to show up when I would rather be doing something else.

If I’m willing to structure my eating habits so as not to overeat, eat the wrong things and keep tabs on everything I shove in my pie hole when it comes time to take down a piece of cheesecake I’m free to do so. When the work is done, freedom to play surfaces.

If I’m doing what I’m supposed to do when I’m supposed to do it I’ll be able to do what I want to do when I want to do it. Zig Ziglar told me that once. Structure is a beautiful thing. It lowers stress. It gives clarity. It reduces decisions. It frees the mind to worry about big things as opposed to little things-fun things not arduous things.

We all need structure. There is freedom in structure. There is freedom in discipline.

Here is a terrific example of what I mean. Chuck Palahniuck is one of the best fiction writers of recent times. His most notable novel turned movie is “Fight Club.” In Chuck’s book “Consider This” he gives incredible tips on becoming a successful writer. Much of what the book covers is prose, story development, etc. However, a key element is structure.

Chuck says, “You’ll want a system for organizing tax receipts. Like an engaged couple planning to get married, make a list of the tools and supplies you need.” He goes on in full detail of the importance of being organized. This removes drudgery during tax time or responding to correspondence. It frees him up to create incredible characters like Tyler Durden.

Alright, alright, alright…

You rule,

Jason