How do I stop worrying about things I can't control?

Question

Deeper Global · Accepted Answer

Worrying about things you can't control is like trying to steer a car by gripping the passenger seat - it creates the illusion of doing something while actually being completely ineffective. This type of worry often stems from anxiety, perfectionism, or past experiences where you felt helpless and are now trying to prevent similar situations through mental vigilance. You might worry about your loved ones' safety, global events, other people's opinions, or future outcomes that depend on factors outside your influence. The cruel irony is that worry feels productive because your brain is active, but it actually makes you less capable of handling the things you can control because it drains your mental and emotional resources. Start by clearly identifying what aspects of a situation are within your control and which are not. For things you can influence, make a plan and take action. For things you can't control, practice acceptance and redirect your mental energy toward your sphere of influence. The serenity prayer captures this wisdom: 'Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and wisdom to know the difference.' When you catch yourself worrying about uncontrollable events, ask yourself: 'Is this worry helping me in any way? What can I actually do about this situation?' If there's nothing you can do, practice letting go through mindfulness, deep breathing, or engaging in activities that bring you into the present moment.