Happiness and freedom begin with a clear understanding of one principle. Some things are within our control, and some things are not.
Epictetus
This is true in all areas of our lives and for all humans. There are no exceptions. We can choose how to perceive a situation, change, others, different perspectives. We can choose how to react to difference, people behaving in ways we didn’t expect.
It is easy to fall into the window and mirror trap. When things go poorly or not the way we desire, we look out the window of ourselves and blame other. When things go well, we look in the mirror and credit ourselves.
Building on the Epictetus quote, there is little we control – basically our perceptions and our decisions of what to do next. And yet, while we control little, we can influence much.
Being clear on the distinction between what you can control and what you can influence is crucial to figure out.
(HT Scott Perry)
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