“Incredible change happens in your life when you decide to take control of what you do have power over instead of craving control over what you don’t.” – Steve Maraboli
Do you find yourself living in fear for your future?
Are you wondering how you’re going to care and provide for yourself, your family, or your business?
This is an unprecedented time in our society today. A time in which the world is on edge, fearful and feeling uncertain about the future. Fear is a natural emotion in times like this. Yet if you are able to move past your fear, these uncertain times can also present you with great opportunities. Your ability to see the opportunity will be determined by whether you react or respond to the uncertainty that seems to be everywhere. Consider that most of your stress comes directly from what you focus on and the thought your focus evokes. Learning to be objective, shift your focus and respond is how you can reclaim tremendous power.
Watch the video to discover how to shift your focus.
According to this unknown source, “the goal isn’t to get rid of all your negative thoughts, feelings, and life situations. That’s impossible. The goal is to change your response to them. To grow so strong on the inside, that nothing on the outside can affect your inner wellness without your conscience permission.”
The keywords in this quote are “conscience permission.” It reminds us that although we cannot control what is occurring around us, we can control our internal state by managing our thoughts, emotions and actions.
Here are three steps you can use to begin to shift your focus towards what you CAN control, manage your internal landscape and respond.
1- What are you focusing on?
Control begins with regulating your influences and focus. What you choose to dwell upon will determine your thoughts, emotions and actions.
2- What emotions and feelings are you experiencing?
Acknowledging and honouring your feelings allows you to adapt your response. For example, if you are feeling anxious and overwhelmed by all the uncertainty, take a moment to determine the influence that is activating the emotion. While getting information is necessary to make decisions, balance your need for information by limiting your exposure to influences that make you feel fearful and anxious. Begin to focus on what you can control by becoming intentional about shifting your thoughts and internal dialogue.
3- Look for the opportunity and gift.
A critical step to shifting your thoughts, internal dialogue and ultimately, your emotions is where you choose to place your focus. I recommend focusing your attention on the blessing, lessons and opportunities that are available during this time. Begin to ask yourself questions that refocus your mind on solutions. Challenge yourself to be innovative by exploring new ways of doing activities that must get done. Explore new ideas by challenging yourself to think outside your customary box. Slowing down and reflecting on your past experiences and lessons learned during other challenging times can also work to shift your emotions.
Thriving during this time of uncertainty is often a choice made by a select few. Become intentional about finding the silver lining in this unique situation. Commit to shifting your energy from one of despair to one of hope and possibility. For when you shift, the world around you will slowly begin to shift.