The concept of the Three Circles of Influence is a framework that helps people identify where they should focus their energy, resources, and time. It’s often used in personal development and organisational management to increase effectiveness and reduce stress. This framework was popularised by Stephen Covey in his book The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. The Three Circles are categorised as follows: the Circle of Control, the Circle of Influence, and the Circle of Concern.
1. Circle of Control: This is the innermost circle and includes all the things you have direct control over, such as your own actions, decisions, responses, thoughts, and emotions. Since you have complete power in this area, focusing on what lies within the Circle of Control allows you to make meaningful and tangible changes. This circle encourages you to take responsibility for your own behaviour rather than blaming others or external conditions. For example, while you cannot control the weather, you can decide to bring an umbrella on a rainy day. This circle emphasises personal agency and encourages accountability.
2. Circle of Influence: The second circle encompasses areas where you can have some level of impact, even though you do not have full control. This includes relationships with others, workplace dynamics, and certain external conditions that you can affect through persuasion, communication, or collaboration. Although your control here is limited, by focusing on what lies in the Circle of Influence, you can still make positive changes and possibly expand your influence over time. For instance, while you cannot control a team member’s attitude, you might influence it by offering support and encouragement.
3. Circle of Concern: This is the outermost circle and includes things that may concern or worry you but are entirely outside your control or influence, such as world events, natural disasters, or other people’s choices. Focusing too much on this circle can lead to frustration and helplessness. The key is to recognise what is beyond your influence and let go of it, so that you can channel your energy into areas where you can make a difference.
By focusing more on the Circle of Control and Circle of Influence, and less on the Circle of Concern, you can achieve a greater sense of control, reduce stress, and enhance productivity.
Ask about the Success Factor one-hour complimentary consultation today.
Want to improve your communication and reduce or remove conflict?
Why not complete the iMA Questionnaire and see what colour you are? http://successfactor-ima.com/questionnaire.html
#successfactor