Locus of control refers to who is in charge of your life—are you steering your own path, or have you jumped on a train that follows a single track set by others? It took me some time to realize that life can either come at you or you can take charge and shape your own journey.

Shaping our journey involves the ability to reflect, learn, and let go, so we can move forward with intention. Our past choices may have led us down challenging paths; however, each lesson learned, along with taking ownership of our actions, adds to our future wisdom. This wisdom helps us make better choices.

Being present, learning from our past, and having a clear vision for our future creates a solid foundation for our lives. It’s essential to be fully aware of what has happened before and understand where we need to go to achieve our dreams.

An internal locus of control relates to our belief system—how we think, feel, act, and direct our energy all have the power to shape our personal reality. Our reality influences our personality and how we navigate the world. When we shift our locus of control externally, to our environment or surroundings, we may start blaming others, feel powerless, or wait for life to unfold rather than actively crafting the life of our dreams.

Life is not linear, and neither are we. We all experience highs and lows. At any moment, we have the opportunity to ask ourselves, “What can I choose right now?” Sometimes the choices are clear, while other times, they may seem clouded by uncertainty. Aligning with our values and vision is an excellent way to pause and reflect. When we lack a sense of control, our behaviors can become patterned, yielding power to external forces, circumstances, or other people. Blaming others, making excuses, being passive, and avoiding responsibility signify that we’ve surrendered our control to our environment. It’s essential to identify what we can control as an ongoing practice. Recognizing your actions, choices, and mindset is key to reclaiming your power.

Start by making small decisions daily; this will gradually build your confidence and empower you to make larger decisions. Journaling can be a valuable tool for self-awareness. Take a moment to pause and reflect on whether a situation is truly within your control. Then, outline steps that align with your mission and engage you moving forward. How can you tell if your locus of control is healthy or harmful? When it feels empowering, you are likely on the right path. If your control leads to positive outcomes and the next best choices, you’re headed in the right direction. However, if it invites negativity or stress, you may be veering off course. Gripping too tightly to control can lead to power struggles, anxiety, and stress. Instead, aim to align and activate your power to build a life that supports your aspirations.