"تنها چیزی که می‌توانم کنترل کنم این است که کارم را چقدر خوب انجام می‌دهم"

The core idea here is straightforward: focus on what you can control, and that's doing your job to the best of your ability. You can't always control the outcome, the actions of others, or external factors, but you can control your own effort and attitude.

Imagine you're a basketball player. You can't control the referee's calls, the opponent's strategy, or even whether your teammates are having a good day. But you can control how hard you practice, how focused you are during the game, and how you respond to challenges. This mindset is all about honing in on your own performance and letting go of the rest.

This idea has roots in stoic philosophy, which teaches that we should focus on our own actions and responses rather than external events. But you don't have to be a philosopher to get it—it's a universal truth that applies to all areas of life. Think about it: how often do we waste energy worrying about things out of our control? All that stress and anxiety could be redirected into something productive, something within our grasp.

Take the story of a software engineer named Alex. Alex worked in a fast-paced tech company where deadlines were tight and expectations high. There were days when the servers would crash, or a project would get derailed by unforeseen complications. Instead of panicking or getting frustrated with things beyond his control, Alex chose to focus on his work. He made sure his code was clean, his communication with teammates was clear, and he met his deadlines. By doing so, he minimized chaos on his end and became known as a reliable and competent professional. His bosses took notice, and he was promoted faster than his peers who spent more time stressing than working.

So, how can you apply this wisdom in your life? Start by identifying what you can control in any given situation. Is it your effort? Your attitude? Your response to setbacks? Once you figure that out, put all your energy there. It might mean setting personal goals, creating a daily routine that maximizes your productivity, or simply reminding yourself to stay calm when things get tough.

Imagine you're working on a group project for a class. Some members aren't pulling their weight, and it's frustrating. Instead of stewing in anger or trying to force them to change, focus on what you can do. Make your section of the project the best it can be, communicate clearly with your teammates, and offer help if they need it. By doing your best, you not only contribute positively to the project but also set a standard that others might follow.

In essence, this approach is liberating. It frees you from the burden of trying to control the uncontrollable and allows you to channel your energy into what truly matters—your own actions. Remember, you can't control the waves, but you can learn to surf. So next time you find yourself caught up in external chaos, take a step back and focus on the one thing you can control: how well you do your job. Your future self will thank you.