The most important thing you need to identify in life is what you can fix because you could waste a lifetime trying to fix something or someone that’s not within your power to fix.
The following is a list of things that’s typically beyond most people’s control:
1. Other people’s thoughts and opinions – First impressions are real. However, we can’t change how others perceive or judge us. We can only put our best foot forward.
2. The past – No matter what, the past is unchangeable; we can only influence the present, and in doing so, maybe the future.
3. Other people’s actions – We can’t control how others behave, only how we respond to their words and actions.
4. Natural events and disasters – Events like weather, natural disasters, and climate changes are out of our control. A volcano will keep erupting until it’s depleted its energy.
5. Unexpected life changes – illness, accidents, or sudden changes in circumstances can happen without warning. Nobody can predict the future.
6. Global events – Wars, political changes, and economic downturns are often beyond individual control.
7. The family we’re born into – Contrary to some folklore, people do not get to choose their family.
8. Time – We can’t speed up or slow down time; it flows at its own pace.
9. Mortality and ageing – The ageing process is beyond humanity’s ability to control. Some people may alter their appearance, but that doesn’t change their age.
10. Other people’s beliefs and values – It’s out of our control to change someone’s deeply held beliefs or values.
When we acknowledge what we can’t control, it helps us focus our efforts on things within our power, leading to a more balanced, fulfilling life.
