There are seasons in life when it feels as though everything is demanding our attention. Work deadlines, family dynamics, world events, unexpected change, financial pressures, health concerns and the constant flow of information can leave us feeling mentally exhausted before the day has even begun.
The challenge is that much of what occupies our thoughts sits well outside our control. Yet we often spend our greatest energy worrying about the very things we have the least ability to change.
Stephen Covey’s concept of the Circle of Concern, Circle of Influence and Circle of Control is a simple but powerful reminder that clarity begins when we intentionally shift our focus. This came to mind particularly for this month’s First Wednesday Wake-Up! as often feels worse especial in the winter month.
Over recent weeks, I’ve noticed this becoming a common theme in my coaching conversations. Clients from many different industries are feeling stretched, distracted and overwhelmed by competing priorities. Often, the breakthrough doesn’t come from finding more hours in the day, it comes from deciding where to place their attention.
Our Circle of Concern contains everything that worries us but sits largely outside our control, economic uncertainty, family decisions made by others, organisational change, world events or other people’s expectations.
Our Circle of Influence is where we can make a positive difference. The relationships we build, the environment we create, the information we consume, the conversations we have and the choices we make all influence outcomes.
At the centre sits our Circle of Control -our mindset, our self-talk, our attitude, our breathing, our responses, our boundaries and the actions we choose today. This is where our greatest personal power lives.
Whenever life feels overwhelming, I encourage clients to ask one simple question:
“Is this something I can control, influence, or simply be concerned about?”
That question alone often brings immediate perspective.
Here are three practical ways to regain focus:
1. Separate the three circles
Write down what’s on your mind and place each item into Control, Influence or Concern. You’ll quickly see where your energy is best invested.
2. Choose one meaningful action
Instead of trying to solve everything, identify one action today that sits within your control and take it.
3. Protect your mindset
Be intentional about what you consume, who you spend time with and how you speak to yourself. Small daily choices create lasting resilience.
As business owners, leaders and individuals, we can’t control everything life throws our way. We can, however, choose how we respond. And often, that’s where our greatest strength is found.
“The more we focus our lives on our Circle of Control and Circle of Influence, the less power our Circle of Concern has over us.”
Inspired by Stephen R. Covey
Until next month, take care of yourself, keep moving forward one step at a time, and remember, your greatest influence begins with the choices you make today.
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