"Instead of worrying about what you cannot control, shift your energy to what you can create."

Worrying about things beyond our control is like trying to catch the wind with a net—it's futile and exhausting. The core idea here is simple: rather than fretting over what you can't change, pour your energy into making something new and meaningful.

Think about it. How often do we get stuck in a loop of anxiety, focusing on external events or outcomes that we simply can't influence? This quote reminds us to redirect that precious time and energy into creative efforts, the things we actually can shape and mold.

Historically, this mindset has been echoed by many great thinkers. The Stoic philosophers, for instance, were all about this stuff. They believed in distinguishing between what's within our control and what's not, and they emphasized focusing on our own actions, judgments, and creativity. It's a timeless idea because it speaks to a universal human experience—we all face uncertainty and uncontrollable circumstances.

Now, let’s dive into a real-life example. Picture this: during the pandemic, a lot of people found themselves stuck at home, unable to control the spread of the virus or the lockdown policies. Many were overwhelmed with worry. But some folks took a different approach. Take Sarah, a graphic designer in New York. Instead of spiraling into anxiety about the global crisis, she decided to focus on what she could control—her creativity. She started an online store selling custom-designed masks. Not only did this give her a sense of purpose and control, but it also brought in some income and provided a much-needed service. Sarah's story shows how shifting focus from the uncontrollable to the creative can result in something practical and positive.

So, how can you apply this wisdom to your own life? Start by identifying what’s within your reach. Are you stressed about the economy? Okay, you can't control that. But you can control your spending habits, maybe even start a side hustle. Feeling anxious about a big presentation at work? You can’t control your colleagues' reactions, but you can prepare thoroughly and practice your delivery.

Let’s make it even more relatable. Imagine you're at a friend's party, and you don't know many people there. It’s easy to worry about whether others will like you or if the conversation will be awkward. Instead, think about what you can control. You can be genuinely interested in others, ask questions about their passions, and maybe even share a funny story. Shifting your energy towards being present and proactive in conversations can lead to more meaningful connections.

This approach isn’t about ignoring the realities of life or pretending problems don’t exist. It’s about channeling your energy into actions that are within your grasp, creating something new—whether it's a project, a relationship, or even just a better mindset.

So next time you feel that familiar knot of worry about something out of your hands, pause for a moment. Take a deep breath. Ask yourself: what can I create right now? It might just lead you to something beautifully unexpected and wonderfully within your control.