Lately I have been finding my mind wandering to things that aren’t in my control.

I know better, but it can be hard.  Maybe you are worried about your health, your career, or your broken march madness bracket.  Even though most of these things are not fully in your control, you worry about the outcome.   

Anytime I notice my thoughts wander to things outside of my control, I try to remind myself of this quote from Maya Angelou who said,

“If you don’t like something, change it.  If you can’t change it, change your attitude.”

We all know that worrying about things you can’t control is pointless because your worry doesn’t affect the outcome.  In these instances your attitude is key.  A positive attitude can help reduce stress, cope with challenges in a healthy way, and assist in achieving your goals.  It is important for your overall well being.

Here are a few tips you can use to help let go of things that are not in your control.

Determine what is in your control.  As previously mentioned, pouring effort into things you can control is much more effective than worrying about what you cannot control.

Identify your fears.  Once we get into a negative thought loop we often exacerbate the worst case outcome.  Instead, try to understand the worst case scenario and acknowledge that it wouldn’t be as bad as you fear.  You can handle it.

Concentrate on your influence.  Maybe things are out of your control, but are they out of your influence?  In order to influence things you must have a positive attitude.

Differentiate between ruminating and problem-solving.  Don’t obsess over yesterday’s bad outcome and instead use your energy to problem solve.  Past mistakes shouldn’t consume your thoughts.  Instead, use it as a learning experience and move forward.

Manage your stress.  This is important for everyone.  Schedule time to form healthy habits to cope with stress.  This could be meditating, working out, or just taking a scheduled break.

Develop healthy affirmations.  Humans have over 70,000 thoughts per day and all too often they are laced with self-doubt and fear.  Every year I come up with a self affirming statement to remind myself that I am limitless.

Welcome to the Limitless Podcast with Nathan Jovanelly.  Thanks for tuning in.