“I just felt like I had no control.”
These words may seem simple, but they hold a powerful meaning. How many times have we all felt this way? Whether it’s in our personal or professional lives, there are moments where we feel like we have lost control. It’s a feeling of helplessness, of being at the mercy of circumstances beyond our control. And it can be one of the most frustrating and disheartening experiences.
I remember a time in my life when I felt completely overwhelmed and out of control. It was during a difficult period at work, where I was constantly bombarded with never-ending tasks and deadlines. I felt like I was drowning, unable to keep up with the demands and expectations placed upon me. No matter how hard I tried, it seemed like I just couldn’t get a grip on things. And that’s when I uttered those words, “I just felt like I had no control.”
But as I look back now, I realize that those words were a reflection of my mindset at the time. I was so focused on what I couldn’t control, that I failed to see what I could control. And that’s the key to regaining control in any situation – shifting our focus from what we can’t control to what we can.
The truth is, there will always be things in life that are out of our control. We can’t control the actions of others, the weather, or unexpected events. But what we can control is how we respond to these situations. We have the power to choose our attitude, our thoughts, and our actions. And that is where our true control lies.
So how can we regain control when we feel like we have lost it? Here are a few tips that have helped me and I hope they will help you too:
1. Take a step back and assess the situation
When we feel overwhelmed and out of control, it’s easy to get caught up in the chaos and lose sight of the bigger picture. Take a moment to step back and assess the situation. What is causing you to feel this way? Is it a specific task or project? Is it a particular person or situation? Understanding the root cause of your feelings can help you gain a better perspective and identify areas where you can take control.
2. Focus on what you can control
As mentioned earlier, the key to regaining control is shifting our focus from what we can’t control to what we can. Make a list of all the things that are within your control in the given situation. It could be how you respond, how you manage your time, or how you communicate with others. By focusing on what you can control, you will feel more empowered and capable of handling the situation.
3. Let go of perfectionism
One of the reasons we feel like we have no control is because we have set unrealistic expectations for ourselves. We strive for perfection in everything we do, which can lead to feelings of failure and inadequacy when things don’t go as planned. It’s important to remember that perfection is not attainable, and it’s okay to make mistakes. Learn to let go of perfectionism and embrace the idea of progress, not perfection.
4. Seek support
Sometimes, we need a little help to regain control. Don’t be afraid to reach out to friends, family, or colleagues for support. Talking to someone can provide a fresh perspective and help you come up with solutions you may not have thought of on your own. It’s also essential to surround yourself with positive and supportive people who can lift you up and motivate you.
5. Practice self-care
When we feel overwhelmed and out of control, it’s easy to neglect our own well-being. But taking care of ourselves is crucial in regaining control. Make time for activities that bring you joy and help you relax. This could be anything from reading a book, going for a walk, or spending time with loved ones. Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup, so take care of yourself first.
In conclusion, feeling like we have no control is a common experience, but it doesn’t have to be a permanent one. By shifting our focus, letting go of perfectionism, seeking support, and practicing self-care, we can regain control in any situation. Remember, you are in control of your thoughts, your actions, and your attitude. So choose to take control and create the life you want.
