{always focusing} on what’s within our control

When we focus on what we can control, our thoughts empower us and then trigger positive emotions.

This one principle sits at the forefront of how we approach life:

Do we give our power away to factors we cannot control or do we retain it and direct our energy onto the options we can actually control?

At any given stage in our life, regardless of the set of circumstances we are dealing with, we can find ourself in one of four mental states:

• Wasting our energy. When we focus on what is not within our control, were wasting our energy on factors that will not move us forward. This is like having a 2-week vacation booked, which was cancelled due to the pandemic. We can complain all we want, but what’s the use? We need to stop draining our energy on it and start thinking clearly.

• Being paranoid. When we ignore what is not within our control, were being paranoid. We shouldn’t ignore external factors, instead, accept what is and be aware of the external conditions that are outside our control. For instance, with this pandemic, it’s important we maintain an understanding of the situation and how it progresses because its advancements have implications on our life. We don’t want to give the matter our undivided attention, but we do want to stay educated on it.

• Wasting opportunities. When we ignore what is within our control, were flat out wasting opportunities. were being unreasonable. We cannot control the weather, the laws, the economy, but we can control our attitude, how we choose to spend our time and who we choose to hang out with. We start being wasteful and start using our time wisely for creations and productivity.

• In a sunshine state of mind. When we focus on what is within our control, were in the driver’s seat, more in control of ourselves. Were being intentional about our attitude and how we spend our energy. This is where we are being emotionally mature and thinking rationally and clearly in a sunshine state of mind. And what does it do to me? It keeps me positive, energised, and motivated.