According to the Stoics we only have control over our opinion, choice, desire, aversion, and the things of our own doing.
Cognitive Behavior Therapy has a similar list of things in our control which includes our thoughts, our behaviors, our attitudes and feelings, and our goals and values.
There is a lot of overlap with some subtle differences which leads to me finding tremendous value in reflecting on both.
So what can we do about it?
My Dad would have said “Accept it, live with it, and get on with your life.” He wasn’t wrong but let me elaborate a little.
Once we know what is in our control we can deduce what is not. This allows us to take responsibility for what “IS” in our control and manage those things in the context of the things that are not in our control.
Sounds easy… I wish it was. Over the years I have found that the most beneficial resources in using these tools to live the life I want to live are the people in my life. Friends, mentors, peers, coaches, counselors. After all… Life is a team sport.
