I’ve seen this phrase FML on Facebook mostly.
Maybe you have, too.
It stands for: Fuck My Life.
Usually in conjunction with something that has gone crazily wrong, following a series of non-catastrophic misfortunes, disappointment or regret.
Here’s my issue with this phrase…
Inherent in there is complaining.
Yes, I know it’s not serious complaining, and it’s more of a joke, a way to commiserate, etc.
But you know what: it’s also total VICTIM mode.
Anyone who uses that is just (on some level) accepting the situation, and “that’s the way it is.”
I’m not saying that challenging stuff doesn’t happen, but I’d much rather take the CREATOR perspective and take charge in my life!
So, when things don’t turn out the way you like, I’d like to offer a NEW phrase:
Fuck My Plans!
(It just feels more fun and more empowering to say that, rather than FML, right? :)
Life throws something in your path you didn’t expect? FMP!
Some crazy awesome opportunity shows up? FMP!
It’s raining outside? You get sick? Car breaks down? FMP! FMP! FMP!
As a traveler, I know all to well what it’s like to have plans, only to see them cast aside because life had other ideas—or, because when I show up, I get an impulse and desire to do something different and I follow that! FMP!
Don’t just believe me. Here’s what a couple other people have said about this:
“Life is what happens when you’re busy making other plans.” ~ John Lennon
“If you want to make God laugh, tell her your plans.” ~ Woody Allen
Basically, what both of these guys are saying is FUCK MY PLANS!
Your life will happen regardless of how much planning you do.
Now, I do think it’s awesome to have direction and goals in your life, AND to be flexible enough to roll with whatever comes down the road.
This is the stuff I continue to work on myself. Nope, haven’t mastered it yet. :)
And finally, know that every now and then I, too, mutter complaints and frustrations; it’s only natural. We’re humans, and we create expectations.
It’s really about how long we hold onto those illusions that create stress and suffering in our lives.
Besides: if you’re going to broadcast a message to the world, would you rather it be that you’re a Victim (FML), just accepting your fate, or a Creator (FMP), ready to charge forward?
I know which one I choose! :)
#FMP
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Got something to say about Victim/Creator roles and FML vs. FMP?
I’d love to hear your response + any other thoughts you have below.
Looking forward to learning more!
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No matter how hard life kicks you in the teeth, you can take instant solace knowing somewhere, someone else has or is suffering many, many times more. There will always be thousands who will gladly trade you, and live in your shoes in a second, so be grateful for the blessing that is you, your life. Adopt an “attitude of gratitude” for every breath you take in. We live like royalty compared to many other societies, and there is very little you can’t overcome. Don’t linger in anger, sorrow or self pity. You have many gifts you should share with the less fortunate and needy. Get back up and rejoin the game with the knowledge there will be more challenges and disappointments you will confront and conquer.
WEATHER ALERT!
To be applied both literally and figuratively;
Never complain about the weather. Why burn energy on things you have no control over? Relish whatever weather you are graced by. Embrace every season like a treasured friend you have not seen in a nine months. Too cold? Enjoy some hot tea. Too hot? Enjoy some iced tea. Complaining or sulking won’t chase away the clouds. Enjoy them, clouds are often very beautiful. Look for a rainbow. The weather will do what the weather needs to do, then it will pass.
this is amazing, paul. thank you SO MUCH. a ton of great gems in there.
perhaps my favorite line: “Get back up and rejoin the game with the knowledge there will be more challenges and disappointments you will confront and conquer.”
:)