Wellbeing

Under Pressure

Feeling under pressure is a natural way for our body to respond to various mental, emotional or physical demands. The way we react to these perceived or real demands is what we would call stress. 

"I am not a product of my circumstances. I am a product of my decisions." - Dr. Stephen R. Covey

Covey distinguishes between our:

• Circle of Concern (things we care about but can’t control)
• Circle of Influence (things we care about and can influence)
• Circle of control (things we can control)

Where are you spending most of your time and energy?

Proactive people focus their efforts on their Circles of Influence & their Circle of Control, which is the area we have control over and they can act upon. They work on the things they can do something about:  their fitness, children, or work. When you act within your Circle of Influence and Circle of Control you are able to reduce stress levels.

Reactive people focus their efforts in the Circle of Concern. They focus on things they have little or no control: the national debt, or the weather. Reactive people tend to neglect those issues that are under their control and influence. Their focus is elsewhere, which results in their Circle of Influence shrinking.

What can you do to keep your focus on your circle of control and influence?