Circle of Control

Recommended by Brigid

in response to Olga K.

Feeling really lost. In my professional, personal, and life in general. Any tips/advice from folks who dealt with this type of disorienting experience? I will read, watch, do workbooks, seek out professional help.

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When my life was falling apart—health, self-image, work, relationships—a social worker I worked with in a high-stress environment asked me to start doing the same exercises we asked kids in crisis to do when they were in therapy. The one that really changed things for me was the circle of control. By understanding what I could control and influence and what I could not, it made changing my circumstances (and life and much of my identity!) something far more manageable over the next few years.

5 days ago

Comments

Brigid

@brigidSep 25, 2026

(I still do this when I’m struggling.)

Grier

@grierSep 26, 2026

so helpful

Olga K.

@olgakSep 27, 2026

This type of processing is actually very similar to EMDR and CPT. This framework or line of inquiry you train yourself to have with self is very helpful.

Brigid

@brigidSep 27, 2026

Yep, straight up a therapy technique!

Across Rec League

Circle of Control

Treemiele

“My morning pages recently called my attention to how much energy my constant list making (which would range from picking up clothes in the bathroom to general directives like reactivate professional networks) robbed from me. I like dreaming and at my toughest times, I’ve been prone to inertia. List making, and breaking those lists into manageable steps was one way I fought the stagnation. But some”