Life throws us curve balls, just a fact of life. But in most cases, we still have a choice. We may not be able to change the outcome, but we definitely have agency over our experiences at work and personally – how we think, feel, and behave.
In the world of psychology the term ‘locus of control’ is used to describe whether people feel they have control over their destiny or if fate and karma have the power to determine outcomes. Those with internal locus of control believe they have a sense of control over the way they think, their actions, and subsequently their outcomes. External locus of control people, on the other hand, believe they have no control what happens in their life and can’t influence what happens to or around them.
Personally, I feel there is such thing as karma and destiny. Too many coincidences and situations in my life not to believe that there is a greater hand involved in my life. However, I also believe each person has a strong impact and can influence which path they take as they meander through life.
Based on corporate experience, I tend to believe people have different levels of drive, should take ownership and accountability for their actions or inactions, can control what their goals/priorities are and where they focus their attention.
So, the next time someone is driving you bananas or you find yourself in a situation which feels helpless, remember you have a choice over how you want to think and respond.
You can throw in the towel OR you can simply use it to wipe the sweat off your face and face the situation head on.
