When Not To Worry: Circle of Control, Influence, and Concern

In life, there are things that we can control, things that we can influence, and things that we cannot control or influence. Understanding these three circles – the circle of control, the circle of influence, and the circle of concern – can help us to better manage our lives and navigate difficult situations. In this blog post, we will explore the concept of circles of control and influence and how it can be applied to our daily lives.

The Circle of Control

The circle of control consists of things that we have direct control over. These are things that we can do something about and that we can change. For example, we can control our thoughts, our behavior, our attitude, and our actions. We can choose to be kind, work hard, exercise, and eat healthily. We can control how we spend our time and how we react to situations.

Focusing on the circle of control can help us to feel empowered and confident. When we focus on what we can control, we are less likely to feel overwhelmed and stressed by things that are outside of our control. By taking action and making positive changes in our lives, we can increase our sense of control and improve our overall well-being.

The Circle of Influence

The circle of influence consists of things that we may not have direct control over, but that we can still influence. These are things that we can affect or change indirectly, by influencing other people or circumstances. For example, we can influence the behavior of our friends and family by setting a positive example or by providing encouragement and support. We can also influence our work environment by suggesting improvements or by working collaboratively with others.

Focusing on the circle of influence can help us to feel more proactive and motivated. By identifying areas where we can make a difference, we can take steps to effect positive change and improve our lives and the lives of those around us. While we may not have direct control over these areas, we can still have a significant impact by using our skills and talents to influence others.

The Circle of Concern

The circle of concern consists of things that are outside of our control and influence. These are things that we may worry about or feel anxious about, but that we cannot do anything to change. For example, we may be concerned about the state of the economy, political issues, or natural disasters. We may also be concerned about the actions or behavior of other people, such as our colleagues, friends, or family members.

Focusing too much on the circle of concern can lead to feelings of helplessness and anxiety. When we worry about things that are outside of our control, we may feel overwhelmed and stressed, and we may struggle to take action to improve our situation. While it’s important to stay informed and aware of what’s happening in the world, it’s also important to recognize the limits of our control and influence.

How to Apply Circles of Control and Influence

Understanding the circles of control and influence can help us to make better decisions and to manage our lives more effectively. Here are some tips on how to apply the concept of circles of control and influence to your daily life:

1. Identify your circle of control. Take a moment to think about the things that you have direct control over. These might include your thoughts, behavior, attitude, and actions. Focus on these areas and make positive changes to improve your life.
2. Identify your circle of influence. Think about the areas where you can make a difference, even if you don’t have direct control. These might include your relationships, your work environment, or your community. Use your skills and talents to influence others and effect positive change.
3. Accept the limits of your control and influence. Recognize that there are some things that you cannot control or influence. Instead of worrying about these things, focus on what does live in your circle of control.

Finding Balance

It is important to note that our circles of control and influence are not fixed. They can change depending on the situation and our mindset. For example, if we are feeling overwhelmed by a situation that is outside of our control, we may need to focus on our circle of influence in order to regain a sense of empowerment.

Similarly, if we are too focused on our circle of influence, we may become frustrated or disappointed when things do not go as planned. It is important to find a balance between our circles of control and influence and to recognize that some things are simply beyond our control.

If it is stressing you out, ask yourself: “Is it in my circle of control?” If the answer is no, find ways to let it go.

Practical Applications

Understanding circles of control and influence can have practical applications in many areas of our lives. For example, in our personal relationships, we may feel frustrated by the behavior of others. By focusing on our circle of control, we can work on our own reactions and responses to these situations, rather than trying to control the behavior of others.

Similarly, in our professional lives, we may face challenges that are beyond our control, such as budget cuts or staffing changes. By focusing on our circle of influence, we can work to make positive changes within our organization, rather than becoming overwhelmed by the situation.

In conclusion, these circles are an important concept for understanding how we can manage our thoughts, emotions, and actions. By focusing on the things within our control, we can feel empowered and in charge of our lives. By focusing on our circle of influence, we can make a positive impact on the world around us. Finding a balance between these circles is key to living a fulfilling life. By recognizing the things that are within our control and influence, we can make informed decisions, take meaningful action, and live our lives to the fullest.