In challenging times, it's important to figure out what you can control

As the Serenity Prayer goes; “God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can and and wisdom to know the difference.

More helpful words were never written. During times like this, it’s important to focus on what you can control. Right now you’re probably feeling scared, overwhelmed and very unsure of what the future holds for you – believe me this is normal taking into consideration what’s going on all around us and the World in general.

I’ve been having bouts of panic myself recently. One minute I’m grand, just working away and I completely forget about what’s going on outside and then the next I’m feeling extremely stressed. But I have to keep reminding myself that if I can’t control what’s going on, I have to stop worrying about it. Of course I’m concerned about the people it’s affecting and if I can give support, I will. If I can’t change it, stressing myself out is only going to have a negative effect on those around me or who I work on line with.

Thinking about the intersection of things that both matter and that we can control will really help – this is the place we should be focusing on because that’s where we can make a difference.

I’ve come to the realisation that I can’t change the COVID-19 Virus, Government decisions, the economic crisis, currencies, restrictions on travel or things like Brexit. I can however focus on what I can change or control, my own behaviour and how I react – this way of thinking makes me more calm and content. It enables me to reach some goals and gives me some satisfaction.

I’ve also limited the amount of news I read or watch, ignoring the noise helps me. To remain focussed on my own work.

Mind yourself and try to stay focused yourself, I promise it will help.