We can divide everything that happens in your life into two groups: those things you can control and those you cannot. Worrying about things beyond your control is simply counterproductive. Focus on those things under your influence.
What can you control?
1. Your decisions.
You make up your own mind. You decide what to eat, to whom you’ll speak, and the direction of your life. If you cannot decide, you’re deciding to let the world determine your fate.
2. Your emotions.
You can choose whether you’ll stay calm or become upset. Life is harder if you can’t control your emotions.
3. Your attitude.
Do you choose to be optimistic or pessimistic? Your attitude influences your thoughts and emotions–and ultimately your actions.
4. Your perspective.
Are you a failure stuck in an unwinnable situation? Or are you a winner in a tough, but manageable situation? Do you believe there are golden opportunities to be found during your challenges? Which perspective would be more likely to support you in your endeavors?
5. Your creativity.
Are you going to repeat the same patterns that have resulted in the current situation? Or are you taking full advantage of your ability to solve problems and create new, exciting results?
Make a list of everything in your life that’s disagreeable to you and Control What You Can. Make note of all the things out of your control and decide not to let them intrude on your thoughts. Put your time and focus on the things within your sphere of control. Ignore those things you can’t influence.
“Every day we have plenty of opportunities to get angry, stressed or offended. But what you’re doing when you indulge these negative emotions is giving something outside yourself power over your happiness. You can choose to not let little things upset you.”
– Joel Osteen