Think of your life as a game where you play the lead role facing challenges making decisions and interacting with other characters. Here’s the twist you’re the only one holding the controller. The other characters no matter how much they impact your journey are non playable characters (NPCs). You can’t control them but you do have a say in how you engage with them and how you respond to their actions. This captures the essence of living life, with a perspective rooted in your sense of control.
Internal vs External Locus of Control
So what’s this all about? It’s a concept that revolves around where you perceive the power to be in your life. Do you see yourself as the one steering the ship or do you think that forces such as destiny, luck, or other people are calling the shots?
When you’re in charge of calling the shots and taking responsibility for the results you have a sense of control. You tend to think “I can make things happen.” However if you frequently feel like life unfolds around you and that your success or failure is influenced by others or external factors then you lean more towards an external locus of control.
The Importance of Being the Protagonist
When you embrace an internal locus of control you begin to see yourself as the character in the story of your life. You take on the role of the player in your own personal video game. This change in viewpoint is impactful because it gives you the reins over your own narrative.
Consider Thomas Edison for a moment. He is known for failing countless times before finally inventing the light bulb. Did he blame the materials, the process, or the universe for his setbacks? Not at all. He saw each failure as a chance to learn famously declaring:
I have not failed. I’ve just discovered 10,000 ways that won’t work.
Edison’s internal locus of control kept him determined and strong ultimately leading to one of history’s inventions.
The Risk of Allowing Others to Dictate Your Life
Now let’s change perspectives. Picture handing your game controller to a non-playable character (NPC). That’s pretty much what happens when you adopt an external locus of control. You allow people, situations, and outside influences to steer your choices and shape your future.
A typical case is the office grumbler. We all have encountered someone like this who perpetually attributes their shortcomings to their superiors, colleagues, the organization, or even the weather. This individual has relinquished control to others transforming into a mere observer in their own life.
First-Person Life Hacks: Regaining Control
So, how can you ensure that you’re the one in charge of the game? Here are some tips to maintain that perspective in your life:
- Take Ownership of Your Results: Begin by being accountable for both your achievements and setbacks. If something doesn’t go as expected, reflect on what you could have done differently. Successful entrepreneurs often do this instead of blaming external factors they adapt and pivot.
- Prepare and Adjust: Just like in a game, obstacles are part of the journey. Rather than being caught off guard by them, try to foresee challenges. This doesn’t mean living in fear; it’s about being ready for anything.
- Choose Your Allies Carefully: Surround yourself with individuals who enrich your journey. While you can’t control everyone you can decide who you let into your life. Supportive and positive people can enhance your experience while toxic ones can hold you back.
- Never Stop Learning: Life, like any game, becomes more challenging with each level. The secret lies in continuously improving your abilities. Read books, enroll in courses, and seek guidance from mentors who can assist you in navigating the next stage.
Ultimately embracing an internal locus of control means seizing the reins of your own narrative. You are the protagonist the lead role the one who shapes the storyline. Of course, there will be obstacles along the way, and not every stage will be a walk in the park but keep in mind that you have the power to steer the game. So why not make it a memorable adventure?
