Locus of Control

As we await the start of the next administration, the country remains evenly divided. While half the population is excited with anticipation the other half lives with worry and even dread. Whatever side you were on, moving forward will demand personal adjusting and coping. And unless you are an individual with relevant power and influence to do something practical, it means moving on with your life while watching and waiting. I am reminded of the signature theory of psychologist, Julian Rotter, who some decades ago coined the pertinent term “locus of control“. It describes two distinct orientations toward life. People with an ‘internal locus of control’ believe they have primary influence over their own life and their personal actions. They attribute success or failure to their own efforts. In contrast are those with an ‘external locus of control’ who believe, as the term suggests, external factors influence matters in their lives. Few of us live an extreme form of Professor Rotter’s thesis, but we can surely identify with his idea in many circumstances. How do we balance tension to cope during times when, let’s be honest, we live at the mercy of external power and control that is not our own? It may not be as vividly dire and threatening as for those trying to survive in oppressive societies, but many feel the threat here at home. There are those fearing the threat of prosecution and deportation over which they have no control. But for the few among us who might be able to assert control in anything, by all means step up and act! If not, practice intentional self care through mindfulness, meditation and healthy distractions. This approach enables us to shift away from the anxiety and even obsessing about what is beyond personal control. Resume your power where you can, accept what you cannot. Keep vigilant for what you might do and wait. Survive and wait! This will pass.