In and Out of Control

Every day, there are countless factors that we encounter that can cause stress and anxiety. From work deadlines to personal relationships, it can often feel like the world is constantly throwing challenges our way. One of the key ways to alleviate these negative emotions is by understanding the difference between elements that are within our control and those that are out of our control.

By recognizing and accepting what we can and cannot control, we can effectively manage our reactions to stressors and find a sense of calm amidst chaos. This concept is especially important for leaders, who must navigate challenging situations while still delivering on their vision, mission, and strategy for their organization.

In my 2023 book, "A Test for Our Time: Crisis Leadership in the Next Normal,” I write of the importance of distinguishing between controllable and uncontrollable elements in crisis leadership. I emphasize that leaders must have a clear understanding of what they can and cannot control to effectively lead their team through difficult times.

So, what exactly falls within our control? Leaders first need to focus on their own actions and behaviors. This includes setting priorities, making decisions, and managing emotions (not just facts and logic). These are all things that we have the power to change and influence in our daily lives.

On the other hand, some elements are out of our control. These can include external events such as natural disasters, wars, economic downturns, and global pandemics. While we cannot control these situations, we can control how we respond to them.

One helpful exercise to distinguish between what is in our control and out of our control is the Circle of Influence and Control model developed by author Stephen Covey. This model encourages individuals to focus on their circle of influence (things they can change) rather than their circle of concern (things they cannot change). By focusing on the things we influence, we can reduce stress and anxiety caused by trying to control uncontrollable elements.

But what about situations where leaders must expand their sphere of influence and control to drive change? In these cases, I advise leaders to focus on "controlling the controllable.” This means identifying the small actions that leaders can take to influence and shape the situation in their favor.

For example, during a crisis, a leader may not be able to control external events, but they can control how they communicate with their team and stakeholders with genuine care and concern. By taking ownership of what is within their control, leaders can effectively steer their organization toward their desired outcome.

Understanding the difference between elements within our control and those outside of our control is crucial for managing stress and anxiety. Leaders must recognize that while they cannot control everything, they can still have a significant impact by focusing on what is within their expanding sphere of influence.

By adopting this mindset and approach, leaders can effectively navigate through crises and achieve their goals in the face of uncertainty. The true test of leadership is not in avoiding crises, but rather in how well one leads through them. So let us all strive to be the best leaders we can be by understanding and effectively managing what is within our control.

#ATestForOurTime #CrisisLeadership #NextNormal #ControllingTheControllable #StephenCovey #CircleOfInfluenceAndControl #LeadingWithEmpathy

https://www.amazon.com/Test-Our-Time-Crisis-Leadership/dp/B0BYRC1T5B

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