100% Rules
I think a lot about rules and have taken to calling them “90% Rules.” These are guidelines that work for 90% of people 90% of the time. These truisms are handed down and generally constitute good advice. Sometimes you find yourself asking, Wait, can I wear white jeans in winter? Well, if you are asking that then you probably shouldn’t. The people who are committed have already crossed over. The believers don’t ask. If you are going to break a rule then at least know you are doing it, own it, and make other people wonder if they’re the ones who’ve been wrong all along.
But here are rules that are iron-clad—there’s nothing wishy-washy here. It’s invigorating to stake out a claim and declare what’s right and what’s wrong. I’m enjoying this moment of clarity. I'm sure you’ll parse this and try to find an exception—then we’ll have to agree to disagree.
Without further ado, here you go.