Lucas Graham
There’s something about certain people that just screams “I’ve got this!” They always seem to have everything under control, no matter what life throws at them.
Ever wondered what their secret is? It probably comes down to specific behaviors that they consistently practice.
In this article, we’re going to explore the 9 specific behaviors of people who always seem to be in control of their life.
Not only will you understand what sets these people apart, but you’ll also find ways to incorporate these behaviors into your own life.
So, let’s dive in!
1) They set clear goals
These people understand the importance of having a clear vision of what they want to achieve. They have a purpose and direction.
But it’s not just about setting goals. It’s about setting the right kind of goals – SMART ones. That is, goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.
Why does this matter? Well, when you have clear goals, you’re better able to focus your efforts, stay motivated, and deal with challenges.
You know where you’re heading and why it’s important.
So if you want to feel more in control of your life, start by defining what you want to achieve. And remember to make it SMART!
Just remember that this isn’t an overnight transformation.
It’s a habit that needs to be cultivated and practiced consistently.
But once you get the hang of it, you’ll see how it can dramatically change your life for the better.
2) They practice mindfulness
Here’s something a little more personal. I’ve noticed that people who seem to have their lives under control often practice mindfulness.
And I can attest to this from personal experience. A few years ago, my life was a whirlwind of stress and endless to-do lists. I felt overwhelmed and out of control. Then, I came across the concept of mindfulness.
Mindfulness is all about being present in the moment, being aware of your thoughts and feelings without judging them.
It sounds simple, but it can be incredibly powerful.
I started practicing mindfulness daily, taking time out of my busy schedule to just be in the moment.
Whether it was a five-minute breathing exercise in the morning or simply being fully present while eating my lunch, these small changes made a big difference.
Over time, I found that this practice helped me become calmer, more focused, and less reactive to stressful situations. It gave me a sense of control over my life that I didn’t have before.
3) They have a positive mindset
Ever heard of the term “self-fulfilling prophecy”?
It is a psychological concept where one’s positive or negative expectations about a situation directly influence the outcome of that situation.
People who seem to be in control of their lives often have a positive mindset.
They see opportunities instead of obstacles and view failures as lessons, not dead ends.
This positive outlook can actually influence their reality, making them more likely to achieve their goals and overcome challenges.
So if you want to gain more control over your life, start by changing your mindset.
Remember, optimism isn’t about ignoring life’s challenges. It’s about approaching those challenges with the belief that you can overcome them.
4) They prioritize self-care
Another common trait of people who seem to be in control of their lives is that they make self-care a priority.
They understand that in order to face the world at their best, they need to take care of themselves first. This means eating well, getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, and taking time to relax and recharge.
Self-care isn’t about being self-indulgent or selfish. It’s about maintaining your physical, mental, and emotional health so you can perform at your peak.
Just like you wouldn’t expect a car to run smoothly without regular maintenance, you can’t expect yourself to function at your best without taking care of your own needs.
5) They are not afraid to say no
They have mastered the art of saying “no”. They understand that their time and energy are limited, and they can’t do everything.
Saying “yes” to every request or opportunity can lead to burnout, stress, and a lack of focus.
It’s simply not sustainable or healthy. On the other hand, saying “no” allows you to prioritize your goals and maintain balance in your life.
It’s not about being selfish or uncooperative. It’s about setting boundaries and respecting your own needs and limitations.
6) They appreciate the small things
Life is full of little joys and everyday miracles, but often we’re too busy or distracted to notice them.
It could be a warm cup of coffee in the morning, a heartfelt conversation with a friend, or even the simple pleasure of reading a good book.
These moments might seem trivial, but they add up to create a sense of contentment and fulfillment.
By appreciating the small things, we become more present and grounded.
We realize that happiness isn’t just about grand achievements or milestones, but can be found in our everyday lives.
So if you want to feel more in control of your life, try to slow down and savor the small joys.
7) They embrace change
Change can be scary. It brings uncertainty, and it’s often easier to stick with the familiar, even if it’s not serving us.
A few years back, I was stuck in a job that no longer fulfilled me. I knew I needed a change, but the thought of leaving the comfort zone was terrifying.
However, I realized that growth doesn’t happen in comfort zones, and so I made the leap.
Embracing change isn’t about being reckless or impulsive.
It’s about understanding that change is a natural part of life and often a stepping stone to better things.
8) They don’t dwell on the past
They acknowledge their mistakes and failures, learn from them, and then move on.
This doesn’t mean they ignore or suppress their past. Rather, they view it as a learning experience and use it to inform their future actions.
They don’t let past failures define them or limit their potential.
Dwelling on the past can lead to feelings of regret, guilt, and stagnation.
On the other hand, focusing on the present and future opens up possibilities for growth and improvement.
9) They take responsibility for their actions
The most crucial behavior people who seem to be in control of their lives display is taking responsibility for their actions.
They don’t blame others for their mistakes or rely on external factors for their success.
Taking responsibility means acknowledging your role in your current situation, whether good or bad.
It means understanding that your decisions and actions have consequences and you are the one in charge of managing them.
This can be a tough pill to swallow, but it’s also empowering.
Because when you take responsibility, you recognize that you have the power to change your circumstances and shape your destiny.
It’s about self-empowerment
The nuances of human behavior are fascinating, and there’s a certain power that comes with understanding these patterns, especially when it comes to controlling our own lives.
At the heart of it all, these behaviors are not just about managing time or setting goals. They’re about self-empowerment.
Understanding that you have the ability to influence your own circumstances is incredibly powerful.
It’s not about luck or fate. It’s about taking charge, making deliberate choices, and accepting the results.
As Eleanor Roosevelt once said, “In the long run, we shape our lives, and we shape ourselves. The process never ends until we die. And the choices we make are ultimately our own responsibility.”
So, as you reflect on these behaviors, remember that each one is a step towards self-empowerment.
They’re not just habits or skills. They’re choices that you make every day to take control of your life and shape your own destiny.
