Linked & Lift Issue #17: Navigating Life's Complexities with Covey's Three Circles of Influence

[Reading Time: 4 mins]

Imagine navigating life's complexities with a compass that not only guides you but empowers your journey. 

The 'Three Circles of Influence' is that compass, a concept derived from Stephen Covey's profound insights. 

It offers a roadmap to personal growth, empowerment, and leadership. 

But, how does it resonate with us in our daily lives and aspirations? 

Let's delve deeper.

🌀 Circle of Concern.

The Circle of Concern houses everything we care about.

Yet, it's a mix of what we can and cannot control.

It’s easy to get lost here, worrying about outcomes we can't change.

"As long as we are working in our Circle of Concern, we empower the things within it to control us." - Stephen Covey in ‘The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People’

🌀 Circle of Influence.

The Circle of Influence is where the magic happens.

It's the sweet spot of direct impact, where your actions and decisions truly matter.

This is where proactive individuals thrive, taking responsibility and driving change.

🌀 Circle of Control.

The innermost circle is our stronghold.

A focused subset where your direct control lies.

It comprises our attitudes, behaviours, and choices. It's the core of empowerment.

I created this infographic which shows the three Circles. Click it for a high-res PDF version. 

Here's the kicker: 

There are two types of mindsets.

The Proactive vs. Reactive Mindset: 

Reactive people often find themselves lost in the Circle of Concern.

They spend too much time in this Circle, stressing over things beyond their control.

This reactive mindset leaves them feeling victimised and powerless.

Solution? Shift the focus. 

In contrast, proactive people dive into their Circle of Influence.

They prioritise actions within this circle to maximise productivity and fulfilment.

It's about being proactive, choosing where to invest your energy wisely.

And within this proactive stance lies the Circle of Control.

Focus here to make tangible changes.

It's about owning your responses, attitudes, and choices. 

So, what can we do?

Effective Time and Energy Management: 

Imagine investing your time and energy in areas where you can make the most significant impact — your Circle of Influence.

This focus maximises productivity and fulfilment and navigates you away from the turbulent waters of stress, towards a more focused and serene journey.

Building Resilience: 

Life can be unpredictable, but understanding the difference between the circles and redirecting attention towards our Circle of Influence and Control helps us become resilient when facing challenges. 

A proactive mindset helps us better adapt to challenges and setbacks ensuring steadfastness in our journey.

So, how do you apply this to your life?

Practical Strategies for Navigating the Circles:

1. Identify Your Circles: 

⇥ Reflect on the aspects of your life within each circle.

Understand where your true influence lies.

Awareness is the first step to change.

2. Focus on What You Can Control: 

⇥ Invest your energy and efforts where it counts - in your Circle of Control and Influence.

Make a meaningful impact in your personal development, relationships, and goals.

3. Practice Self-Awareness: 

⇥ Become mindful of your reactions to external events.

Recognize when you're drifting towards the Circle of Concern and consciously steer back.

4. Choose Your Responses: 

⇥ In the face of challenges within your control, choose how you will respond.

Your power lies in your response.

The Benefits:

Focusing on our Circles of Control and Influence is more than a strategy.

It's a beacon leading to empowerment, resilience, and productivity.

It empowers us to take ownership of our actions and choices, navigate challenges more effectively, and invest our energy in what truly matters.

Understanding and embracing the Three Circles of Influence is a game-changer.

It's a strategy for life that fosters growth, empowers people, and cultivates leadership.

So, ask yourself: Where is your focus today?

Start redirecting your energy. 

Growth, empowerment, and leadership await.

Until next time,

Véronique.

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P.S. Many of you have asked me about my infographics. Reply to this email newsletter to find out how they can be created for you. You can also DM me on LinkedIn.

P.P.S. Sending a warm welcome to everyone who joined The Linked And Lift community since last week! Check the welcome email I sent you to find out how you can download, for free, all 40+ high-res PDF versions of my infographics.