Get Control of your Locus of Control
How much control do you feel over your life? Over your health and wellbeing? Do you feel as if others are affecting your wellness, or if it is your own choices that are affecting you?
Understanding Locus of Control
This psychological concept refers to how much control you feel over aspects of your life. Are you in control, or is it beyond your control?
Internal Locus of Control: A belief that outcomes in our lives are from our daily actions, decisions, and efforts. Provides a sense of empowerment.
External Locus of Control: A belief that outcomes in our lives are from external factors such as fate, luck, and others.
Wellness: Nurturing the Whole Self
Internal Locus of Control:
Individuals with an Internal Locus of Control are proactive about their wellness. They see the causation and connection between their lifestyle choices and overall well-being. They believe that making healthy choices will empower their lives, and they engage in healthy practices of movement, nutrition, rest, mindfulness, and social well-being.
External Locus of Control:
Those with an External Locus of Control see their wellness as being influenced by external circumstances. I don't think of this as being an individual's fault! Life is challenging! Give yourself some grace, but also recognize patterns. Obligations (work, family, social) might be in the way. Because of these obligations, it becomes hard to engage in wellness practices, and it becomes easy to see it as outside of our control.
Empower Change through Mindset
Shifting towards an internal locus of control can empower individuals to take charge of their wellness. Here are some strategies to facilitate this shift:
1. Goal Setting and Achievement:
Set SMART Goals (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, Timely)
Celebrate achievements, positively reinforcing the connection between effort and outcomes.
2. Educational Empowerment:
Seek information about the impact of lifestyle choices on health.
Enhance knowledge about fitness, nutrition, and well-being.
Recognize and celebrate strengths and progress
3. Mindfulness Practices:
Begin mindfulness practices to promote self-awareness and conscious decision-making.
Incorporate mindfulness into exercise routines to enhance the mind-body connection.
Focus on positive reinforcement and self-compassion.
In conclusion
Locus of control is a dynamic force that shapes our perceptions and actions. By fostering an internal locus of control, individuals can cultivate a sense of agency and responsibility for their well-being. It becomes a vehicle for positive change.
Every Body Strength & Fitness
Empowering Every Body & Mind, Every Day
-Matthew Barrett-
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