Rule your mind or it will rule you. (Horace).
In the intricate dance of life, we often find ourselves amidst a whirlwind of external events that seem beyond our grasp. Today, it’s crucial for both parents and teens to grasp a fundamental truth – the locus of control lies within our own behavior and our response to the stimuli that life throws our way.
The world around us may be unpredictable and at times unsettling, but the power lies in recognizing that we can’t always control these external events. It might sound daunting, yet there’s a delicate balance when we realize that, despite the chaos, we possess the ability to control our perspectives and opinions about these events.
Consider this: the circumstances may be out of our hands, but our thoughts about them are firmly within our control. The power to determine whether an event is good or bad, fair or unfair, rests squarely in our hands. The situation may elude our control, yet our thoughts about it remain firmly in our grasp. This leads to our response to the event which we do control.
Every facet of life that lies beyond our immediate control – the external world, the actions of others, the whims of luck or the twists of karma – we can decide our response and help shape the pathway of the situation. This awareness provides us with an acknowledgment that while we may not be able to dictate the unfolding events, we have the authority to shape our responses. This revelation isn’t just empowering; it’s liberating. It is also important for our teens to learn and to practice.
So, as parents guiding the younger generation, and as teens stepping into a world of uncertainties, remember this fundamental truth – your true power lies not in controlling the external circumstances but in mastering your own reactions to them. Embrace the autonomy you have over your thoughts, opinions, and responses. In doing so, you’ll find that even in the face of life’s unpredictability, you have an extraordinary influence over your own narrative and are the author of your own story. You are the author of your perspective and reaction. This realization is a strength in a world that often feels uncontrollable. So, embrace the empowerment that comes from recognizing the extent of your influence, and embark on the journey of mastering the art of navigating the uncontrollable with resilience, wisdom, and a profound sense of self-control.