---

Controlling yourself.

You will never be able to control another person.  You can only control yourself and your own behavior.  Because of this, it’s best to invest energy into something you can control, and that is you.

When everything feels out of control that is when people try to control the impossible.  Remember, you will never be able to control other people.  There are things in this world you will not ever be able to change.  There will always be 24 hours in a day.  Holidays will always come and go.  Children grow up and move on.  You can’t change the way you were raised.  Controlling how others drive isn’t going to happen.  You will never be able to control your teenager’s mood swings or your two year old’s tantrums.  People dying, loved ones getting terminally ill, and tragic accidents are out of your control.  Don’t waste your energy even trying to control these things, because you will never succeed.

What can you control?

There are many things, however, that you can be in control of.  Deciding how to treat others is up to you.  What kind of self-care you will participate in is up to you.  Will you exercise?  How about eating healthy?  Maybe you can reduce your to-do list?  How about making goals for yourself?  What values will you instill in your children?  Will you choose friends who add joy to your life?

I believe everyone has a legacy.  A legacy is not only for the rich and famous.  If I were to take a panoramic picture of you and your community, then lay it out for viewing, what would people say about you?  Would they say, “Oh my, she is so grouchy” or “Approach her cautiously because you never know if she is in a good mood or a bad mood.” Or would they say, “She is the friendliest person, so supportive and she has such a positive attitude.”  Whether you believe it or not, you create your legacy, and everyone has one.  Are you satisfied with your legacy?  If not what changes will you be willing to make and how will you make those changes?

My Legacy is what?

My legacy now is:

__________________________________________

Do I want my legacy to be different?

Do I need or want to change it?

__________________________________________

 

If yes, write down how you will begin to make changes to your legacy.  Here are a few suggested changes you could make.  Perhaps try volunteering on a project with a smile on your face.  You may wish to bring treats to your next meeting without being asked.  You could try listening to people talk without interrupting them.  Those are just a few possible suggestions.