PERSONAL NOTE

Well, I have to say that April had its ups and downs. I had a lot of fun in the first half including seeing Trevor Noah in a live performance.  I laughed a lot and was also very impressed with his intelligence and his courage to take questions from the audience.  Then a few days later I got to see a dear friend, Steve, perform his first stand-up comedy routine and fulfill one of his dreams.  He was great!  Then in the second half I got very sick with I don't know what.  Tested negative for COVID which was odd since along with filling horrible I have lost my sense of smell.  You know how many times you have said "I wasn't hungry until I smelled the food" well, that's not a problem anymore.  If it ever comes back, I'll let you know.  This month we're looking at control issues.  

ARTICLE

Can I Control This?

Trying to control everything can feel like chasing a never-ending race, don't you think? With so many factors beyond your control, it's like trying to hold onto sand—the more you try to grasp, the more slips through your fingers. Instead of exhausting yourself in pursuit of the impossible, it's liberating to embrace the beauty of uncertainty and focus on what you can influence. By letting go of the need for total control, you open yourself up to new possibilities, opportunities for growth, and the freedom to savor life's unexpected twists and turns.

Life is full of surprises, isn't it? There are always things that seem to be beyond your control, no matter how much you plan or prepare. Take the weather, for example. You can check the forecast, carry an umbrella, or wear layers, but ultimately, you can't control whether it rains or shines. It's a reminder that sometimes, you just have to go with the flow and adapt to whatever nature throws your way.

Another aspect that's often out of your hands is other people's actions. You can communicate clearly, express your expectations, and be kind and understanding, but you can't control how others choose to behave. It can be frustrating at times, but it's also an opportunity for growth and learning to let go of what you can't change and focus on what you can control—your own responses and attitudes.

The whirlwind of national and global events keeps you alert, doesn't it? Despite your planning and foresight, there are always factors beyond your control. Whether it's changes in politics, shifts in the economy, or natural disasters, these occurrences ripple through your life, business, and society. While it can feel overwhelming, it's also a call to embrace adaptability and build resilience.

Lastly, the passage of time is something none of us can stop or manipulate. Each day brings new opportunities and challenges, and all you can do is make the most of the present moment. It's a gentle reminder to cherish the people you love, pursue your passions, and appreciate the journey, even when you can't control every twist and turn along the way.

Use any of these 9 tips when faced with something out of your control and you need a reminder of another approach to take. 

• Acceptance: Acknowledge that some things are beyond your influence and accept them as they are.
• Focus on what you can control: Direct your energy and efforts towards areas where you can make a difference.
• Stay adaptable: Be flexible and willing to adjust your plans and expectations when necessary.
• Practice mindfulness: Stay present in the moment and avoid dwelling on things you cannot change.
• Develop resilience: Build emotional resilience to cope with uncertainty and setbacks.
• Seek support: Lean on friends, family, or professionals for guidance and emotional support.
• Stay proactive: Take proactive steps to prepare for potential challenges within your control.
• Maintain perspective: Keep things in perspective and remind yourself of the bigger picture.
• Learn and grow: Use challenging situations as opportunities for learning, growth, and self-improvement. 

GREAT QUOTE

"The moment you surrender and accept what is, is the moment you begin to shift your energy from resisting to allowing." - Unknown  

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Stay safe, healthy, and happy!

Coach Jan