What is the theory behind this Therapy Worksheet About Control?
Whenever we face hard times or difficult situations there are always factors related to it that are within our control and those that aren’t. The only way to face such a situation head on and not let it overwhelm us is to focus on the aspects of it that are within our control. It’s best not to waste one’s energy in worrying about things outside of one’s control. According to Stephen Covey, focusing on what one can do instead of things beyond their control is a characteristic of proactive people.
How will the worksheet help?
This worksheet is based on the ‘Circle of Concern-Circle of Influence’ concept developed by Stephen Covey. It will help clients to think about and write down factors related to a difficult situation that are in their control and those that are not. This will help them focus on working with the controllable aspects and not fret over the uncontrollable ones. It can be especially helpful for clients seeking help for anxiety since it tends to make them focus on and excessively worry about the big uncontrollable things.
How to use the worksheet?
This worksheet can be used in individual or group settings. Ask the client to write down what is in their control in the middle circle then what is of little control in the circle outside and then the things that are completely uncontrollable in the outermost circle. Tell them they have to actively focus on things that are in their control.
Therapy Worksheet About Control
Instructions:
Reflect on the aspects of your life that are in your control (A), somewhat in your control (B) and completely out of your control (C). Write them down in the circles according to the labels. The things you have mentioned in A are in your circle of control – aspects of your life that you can change.
The things you have mentioned in B are in your circle of influence – aspects of your life that can be influenced by your actions to some degree. The things you have mentioned in C are in your circle of concern – You can be concerned about these things to an extent but in reality you have no control or influence over them and so making this your focus is useless.
Whenever you find yourself worrying excessively refer back to your circle of control and bring your focus to the centre.
Reference
You can download this worksheet here.