What Are You Really in Control Of?

After 10 years with the same company, Jill’s last day as a corporate director arrived. She had a knot in her stomach. The layoff package was on her desk for final signature. What could have I done differently, she thought. The house is paid off. The kids are in a good school. Yet, her mind was on edge. Her marriage was a wreck and her kids barely talked to her. Jill’s friends barely remember to invite her to gatherings as she was usually too busy working. All she really wanted was to feel something again and get off the rat race.

As Jill left the brick building, she went for a walk in a nearby park and asked herself, what could I have controlled differently?

Jill realized she lashed out at her team when the project didn’t go right. She ate uncontrollably when project deadlines weren’t met. She had no energy when she came home, and ignored her husband and kids, throwing pizza in the oven for dinner.

It’s time to take back control of what I can control.

I will eat healthy and begin a daily walking program.

I will plan two family days a month to stop the rushing around and spend quality time together.

I will learn how to manage my emotions and learn stress management techniques.

I will say “yes” to fun activities that make me come alive inside.

I will take ownership for the choices that led me down this path. It’s up to me to change my choices.

Three months later, Jill started a new job with a sense of calm and ease. She had sustained energy throughout the day. Her marriage began to blossom and her kids invited her to play cards with them. It was a new day, a new time, a new approach to life.

Jill took the initiative to get still and identify what really wasn’t working. Will you?

Wishing you an abundant, joyful and prosperous day!