Captain Edward Murphy is attributed as originator of the famous quote “If anything can go wrong, it will”.  This has become known as Murphy’s law.

It resonates with everyone because it is pragmatic and allows us to shrug off unfortunate events.  This much like it’s sister phrase “it is what it is” (which I believe arose organically).  Both concepts can let us accept the challenge and move on (shit happens is another good example).

Perspective

In the case of Murphy he was an army engineer and at the point in his career when he was quoted he was working on military projects at Edwards Airforce base.

His experience included many unexpected set backs and he became a bit of a pessimist with a purpose, that is acknowledge, accept and move on to success.

Murphy very much believed that in the face of adversity the best approach was not to break down in despair but rather accept that shit happens, fix it and move on.

Prevention

A key concept of project management is recognizing and being prepared for risks.  Murphys law is not about risks you can recognize and prepare to overcome in advance.

Rather it is a recognition that the unexpected can, and will, rear it’s ugly head from time to time.  This phrase is not about preparing for these problems but rather not panicking when they occur.

In my experience adversity can also be resolved to our personal satisfaction in a reasoned and logical way.  Accept that bad stuff can and will occur and deal with it.