Have you been overwhelmed by multiple stressors that feel out of your control? If so, you are not alone. On a global level, it feels like devastating events take place everyday, which are not in our power to change. In addition, many of us feel that there are stressors or events we are experiencing personally, that are beyond our control. It is normal to want to influence the things, people, experiences, and outcomes that are important to us. Along these lines, it is definitely valuable to put effort into what you can control, such as working towards your goals, taking care of yourself, and maintaining relationships with others.
However, it is equally important to accept all that you cannot control in yourself, others, and the world around you. But how can one work towards acceptance?
I love this article on keys to accepting what you cannot change. The point that stands out most to me is: look for and create meaning in your life. In line with Viktor Frankl’s philosophy, we cannot always change a situation or eliminate suffering, but we can make meaning of everything we experience.
I encourage each of us to think of the ways that we have found meaning and developed resilience through facing situations that were out of our control.
Written by: Taejah Vemuri, LCPC, MPH, Urban Balance