"Focus on what you can control and don't waste energy on what you cannot. " - Unknown
The circle of influence is a concept developed by Stephen Covey, developed by the author of the "Seven Habits of Highly Effective People" which is a concept I use a lot in my coaching sessions.
The Circle of Concern is the area that we have no control over, such as who wins the presidential election, the weather, or the identity of your family members. The Circle of Influence is the area that we have control over, such as whom I vote as president, whether or not I bring my umbrella, and how I communicate with my family members.
The goal is to increase the Circle of Influence and thus decrease the Circle of Concern: What can you do about it? If you have done everything within your control, do you need to worry about this?
The goal is to increase the Circle of Influence and thus decrease the Circle of Concern
Let me share a personal story:
When I just joined the consulting industry, I was very worried about the appraisal I received from my project managers. I receive appraisals about every three months and the results impact my bonus and whether I can get promoted or need to leave the firm. I was constantly worrying about how I was "perceived" and could not show my authentic self at work. I thought I would not even make it to Senior Consultant.
Through many trials and errors, I realize I cannot influence many aspects contributing to my appraisal: the project type, my client, or even whether my manager likes me or not. The only thing I was able to influence was how I show up in my projects.
I analyzed my strength and actively asked for opportunities to use them. I started to develop more confidence, even in areas where I initially don't have much idea about. Because I know, that if I give effort, I can learn and become better.
I stopped worrying about how I was perceived and started to feel the positive energy at the start of each project. Even when the team and I got stuck or faced a roadblock we know that we can overcome them. Ten years later, I am an associate partner co-heading the APAC office. I think I would not have made it here if I did not work on my mindset.
That is just one example. I know I myself still have a long way to go so that I can stop worrying.
What is one worry you want to drop today? What is one change you can do to increase your circle of influence? Let me know!