Feeling Out of Control? Here’s How to Regain Control Through Your Thoughts
Do you often feel out of control? Maybe you find yourself reacting in ways you don’t want—like yelling, overeating, or endlessly scrolling on social media. These reactions can leave us feeling powerless, but there is good news: with deliberate thinking, you can take back control.
Understanding Why We Feel Out of Control
Most of us react automatically to situations without stopping to consider the thoughts driving our behaviors. This leads to a feeling of helplessness, as if we’re running on autopilot. However, these reactions aren’t entirely beyond our control; they’re simply habitual responses that we can change by becoming more aware of our thoughts.
The Thought Cycle and Its Power
To take control, it helps to understand how the thought cycle works:
- Thoughts create feelings.
- Feelings drive actions.
- Actions create results.
- Results reflect your thoughts.
If our thoughts are negative or limiting, they can influence our feelings and actions in ways that reinforce feelings of being out of control. By shifting our thoughts, we can reshape this cycle to create more positive feelings, actions, and results.
You Are Not Your Thoughts
One of the reasons we feel out of control is that we believe our thoughts define us. However, thoughts are not our identity; they’re temporary and can be changed. Recognizing that you don’t have to believe every thought you think is incredibly empowering.
Shift Your Mindset to Regain Control
Here’s how to start feeling more in control of your life:
- Notice Your Thoughts: Observe them without judgment. Are they helping or limiting you?
- Challenge Negative Beliefs: Ask yourself if each thought is truly accurate. Many of our thoughts aren’t based on reality.
- Choose Better Thoughts: With practice, focus on thoughts that empower you. This shift will change your feelings, actions, and outcomes.
Control What You Can
We can’t control everything, but we can control our thoughts about circumstances. By choosing to think positively, you gain a sense of control and change your experience, even in challenging situations.
Conclusion: Transforming “Out of Control” Into Empowered
If you’ve been feeling out of control, start with your thoughts. Taking control of your thoughts is the first step to feeling more in control of your life. Every thought is a choice, and with practice, you can create a life that feels fulfilling, one thought at a time.
