Do you ever feel stuck? Like no matter what you do, nothing changes?
I’ve been there. During my own struggle with depression, it felt like everything was slipping through my fingers. Anxiety told me I had to fix it all. Depression told me I couldn’t fix anything. And somewhere in that noise, I forgot a simple truth: I still had control over something.
The ancient Stoics understood this deeply. They believed that peace comes from knowing the difference between what we can control – and what we can’t.
This isn’t just old philosophy. It’s also backed by modern psychology. When we believe nothing is in our control, it can lead to anxiety, helplessness and depression. But even in the hardest moments, we still have power over parts of our experience.
🔸 3 Ways to Refocus On What Is In Your Control 🔸
✅ Your Attention
Where you place your focus matters. Are you feeding your fears or your strengths? Even 60 seconds of mindful breathing can reset your day.
✅ Your Response
You may not choose what happens, but you do choose how you respond. That choice is a quiet superpower.
✅ Your Effort
You can’t guarantee outcomes, but you can show up, try your best, and align with your values. That’s what integrity looks like.
“Some things are up to us and some things are not.”
– Epictetus
When we put our energy into what is ours to influence, life feels a little lighter and more clear.
That’s not false hope. It’s freedom.
And it’s available to all of us, even on our hardest days.
Peter Zafirides, MD
Central Ohio Behavioral Medicine
(Image Credit: AgrassoBlog)
(For educational purposes only. Not medical advice.)
PSYCHIATRY
COLUMBUS, OHIO
If you’re experiencing anxiety or depression do not take these symptoms lightly. The earlier you get help, the quicker you can find healing, because your symptoms truly can get better. Working with our psychiatrists is a proven path for dealing with such concerns. Contact us to talk about getting you the help you need and deserve.
