Accepting Responsibility for Things Within One's Reach and Letting Go of What's Beyond Control
In a world where we often feel overwhelmed by the problems and concerns around us, it's essential to understand what we can truly influence. Stephen Covey, author of the renowned book The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, introduces a framework consisting of a Circle of Concern and a Circle of Influence. This framework, originally published on Sharon Martin's website, offers a practical approach to managing our time, energy, and resources more effectively.
The Circle of Concern includes everything we care about, such as health, finances, our children's behaviour, potholes, school shootings, climate change, and more. It's natural to worry about these issues, but it's not helpful to dwell on problems that we can't fix or to force solutions on others.
On the other hand, the Circle of Influence is a more manageable area, consisting of those things we care about and can do something about. By focusing on the Circle of Influence, we can be more effective and feel more satisfied in our work and personal lives. Codependents, who often overestimate their influence, can particularly benefit from this approach. They may find that by focusing on their Circle of Control, they can be more effective and avoid the frustration of trying to change others.
The Circle of Control is a subset of the Circle of Influence and includes only the things we can directly control. This could be what we say, do, think, and feel. To clarify what's in our control, we can ask ourselves questions like: What concern or problem is bothering me right now? Do I have direct control, indirect control (influence), or is it out of my control?
Proactive people focus their efforts in the Circle of Influence, while reactive people focus on the Circle of Concern. By prioritising our Circle of Control, we can avoid burnout or obsession with others' problems. It's important to keep the focus on our needs to maintain a healthy balance.
Covey also suggests adding a third circle, the Circle of Control, which is a subset of the Circle of Influence and includes only the things we can directly control. The majority of our time and energy should be spent in this Circle. If we have influence but it's less than a 5, focus on acceptance. If it's greater than a 5, consider if the person wants help, advice, or guidance, and how much time, energy, or resources to devote to influencing them.
When we focus too much on the Circle of Concern and not enough on the Circle of Control, we hurt ourselves and our relationships. By understanding and applying this framework, we can take control of our lives and make a positive impact on the things that truly matter.
The photo used in the article was taken by Radu Florin on Unsplash. The author who published the article about the circles of concern, influence, and control in 2019 is not explicitly named in the provided search results. However, the insights and wisdom shared in this article continue to resonate and offer a practical approach to navigating the challenges of modern life.
Read also:
- Understanding Hemorrhagic Gastroenteritis: Key Facts
- Stopping Osteoporosis Treatment: Timeline Considerations
- Tobacco industry's suggested changes on a legislative modification are disregarded by health journalists
- Expanded Community Health Involvement by CK Birla Hospitals, Jaipur, Maintained Through Consistent Outreach Programs Across Rajasthan
