You probably know the acronym for FAITH - forsaking all, I trust Him. That begs the question, where is your trust? Are you trusting in your education, money, social status, family background or past successes? While these have value to you, what is the value to others? Possibly nothing at all.
A basic concept in psychology is internal v. external locus of control. Locus is a Latin word that means "place". What is the "place" where control over your life resides? If you are dependent on the opinions of others, regardless of how close their relationship to you, then you are giving away control outside yourself. That's external locus of control.. The boss compliments you in private than pushes the blame for his mistakes onto you in the board meeting. A friend is nice to your face but talks negatively about you to the other women. Even your elementary age child knows how to demand that you do things for her and gives minimal thanks. Those are all examples of external local of control. You have given away the control for your beliefs, attitudes, life satisfaction and self image to others.
If you choose to have internal locus of control then you are taking full responsibility for your actions, moods and responses. That means you give up the "she told me to do that" or "he makes me so mad".
You are prepared to receive criticism or praise, filter it appropriately, then take was is useful and discard the rest. That is living with internal locus of control.
As a believer, internal locus of control does not mean self-centered or above God. When you choose to affirm the authority of God and His immeasurable love for you, then you give room to have your spiritual life fully integrated into your being. Thanks to free will, you decide to be spiritually in tune with God as a vital element in the choices of your life. That's a high level of internal locus of control.
So think again. . . who/what/where is the control in your life decisions? Are you satisfied with that?
If not, move toward internal locus of control.
About Me
- Dr KT Erwin
- Blending backgrounds in broadcasting, gerontology, mental health counseling and online teaching, Dr KT Erwin brings a broad range of experiences to her writing. Thanks to the "write twist" on a tale of Medicare fraud, deception and murder, her first novel burst onto scene in New Title Showcase at Book Expo of America. The latest among six professional books is Group Techniques for Aging Adults 2nd Edition (Routledge). Dr Erwin loves to write about writing, teach writing and encourage students toward higher level of written expression.
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