"Si tu n'aimes pas quelque chose change-le. Si tu ne peux pas le changer change ton attitude."

Change is a constant in life. Sometimes we can control the changes, and other times we can only control how we react to them. This quote is all about taking control where you can and adapting when you can't.

The core idea is straightforward: if there's something in your life you don't like, try to change it. But if you can't change it, the next best thing is to change your attitude about it. It's about not being passive—about taking an active role in your own happiness.

The historical context doesn't matter much here, but the advice itself is timeless. Imagine you've got a job you don't love. Maybe your boss is a micromanager, the work is monotonous, and the commute is a nightmare. You could look for a new job, of course—that's the ideal. But what if the job market's tough? What if you need the stability for now? That's where the second part of the quote kicks in. Instead of letting the job drain you, you adjust your mindset. Maybe you can find ways to make the work more engaging or focus on the positive aspects, like the paycheck that supports your family or the skills you're gaining for your next career move.

Take the example of Nelson Mandela. He was imprisoned for 27 years. Talk about a situation you can't change! But he didn't let it break him. Instead, he worked on changing his attitude. He used the time to reflect, to plan, and to keep hope alive. When he was finally released, he was ready to lead a country. He didn't just survive—he thrived.

So, how do you apply this wisdom? Start small. Identify one thing you don't like. Maybe it's that your mornings are always rushed and stressful. Can you change that? Sure. Get up 15 minutes earlier, prepare your breakfast the night before, or plan your outfit in advance. But if you can't—or if you're not a morning person and changing your routine feels impossible—change your attitude. Accept that mornings are going to be hectic for now and find a way to inject some positivity into them. Maybe listen to your favorite podcast on your commute or treat yourself to a good cup of coffee.

Imagine you're at a family dinner, and your uncle starts talking about politics. You can't change his opinions, and you surely can't change the conversation. You could get frustrated, or you could change your attitude. See it as an opportunity to practice patience, or use it as a chance to understand a different perspective, even if you disagree.

Here's a relatable scenario: think about your daily commute. If you drive to work every day and hate the traffic, you might try to change it by leaving earlier or finding a different route. But if those changes don't work, then it's time to shift your attitude. Instead of getting angry at every red light, listen to an audiobook or some music you love. Transform that hour into something enjoyable, or at least bearable.

By taking control where you can and adjusting your mindset where you can't, you empower yourself. It's all about tweaking your perspective to reduce negativity and increase positivity. So next time you're faced with something you don't like, ask yourself: Can I change this? If not, how can I change how I feel about it? This approach can make a world of difference.