The 5 Fs

A Personal Operating System

We’ve likely all heard of an operating system. Whether it’s your computer’s OS, the Entrepreneurial Operating System, or your family’s unnamed and unmanaged operating system, we know they’re crucial, but what exactly is an operating system?

The website Geeks For Geeks (geeksforgeeks.org) says:

The purpose of an operating system is to provide an environment in which a user can execute [computer] programs conveniently and efficiently.

I want to highlight the words “conveniently” and “efficiently.” Humans can operate relatively conveniently and efficiently in controlled situations. I’ve found that I lose my convenience and efficiency the moment a wrench is thrown into the mix. Those “wrench situations” are exactly why I try to use the 5 Fs (created by someone far smarter than me). The operating system or rules that the 5 Fs cover help reduce decision fatigue and protect me from myself when wrenches are present.

So, what are the 5 Fs? They represent five categories of life: Faith, Family, Finance, Fitness, and Fun. Here are my personal 5 Fs operating system rules.

Faith Rules

• I pray before making any life-altering decisions

• I devote time each day to reading God’s Word

• I go to church each week

• I pray each day and include a list of things I’m thankful for

• I don’t deny Christ

Family Rules

• I am present for my loved ones

• I prioritize family over all but faith

• I devote time each week to contact loved ones

• I am honest rather than people-pleasing

• I am never shy about telling my family how much I love them

Finance Rules

• I don’t get into any new fixed obligations

• I prioritize cash flow before leverage and above equity

• Boring is allowed

• I invest into my IRA each month, even if it’s only $1

Fitness Rules

• Training serves life, not identity

• I work out at least two times per week

• I consume information about healthy food choices or exercise each week

• I eat 180+g of protein each day

Fun Rules

• I have fun without going into debt

• I say yes to friends and find a way to creatively, inexpensively have fun

• I take calculated risks in the name of having fun

These are a list of my rules, they’re certainly not universal. I do hope you’re able to alter and expand on my list, however, for your own life. And keep in mind, these rules change over time. Just make sure you change them slowly, not emotionally.

When I have wrenches thrown at me, I do my best to default to these guidelines; it makes life feel more convenient and decisions more efficient.