We’ve all been there—lying awake at night, replaying scenarios in our minds, stressing over things we have absolutely no power to change. Whether it’s the weather ruining your plans, someone else’s opinion of you, or the latest headlines, worry has a way of latching on and draining your energy.

But here’s the kicker: when we obsess over things we can’t control, it doesn’t just stay in that lane—it bleeds over into the parts of life we can influence.

The Hidden Cost of Uncontrollable Worry

Worry takes up mental real estate. The more we dwell on what’s outside our power, the less focus, energy, and clarity we have for what is within our reach. Think of it like carrying around a leaking bucket: eventually, it spills everywhere, even on the things that matter most.

Focus suffers — When your mind is tied up in “what ifs,” it’s harder to concentrate on work, relationships, or even small daily tasks.

Decision-making stalls — Anxiety over the uncontrollable makes us hesitant, second-guessing even choices we do have authority over.

Negativity spreads — A preoccupation with the uncontrollable can create a negative mindset, which seeps into how we approach situations we actually have the power to improve.

In short: worry about the big storms you can’t stop long enough, and it starts washing away the seeds you’re planting in your own garden.

A Better Approach: Control the Controllables

Instead of pouring energy into things you’ll never shift, redirect that focus toward the areas where your choices matter:

Your responses, not the circumstances.

Your habits, not someone else’s behavior.

Your mindset, not the news cycle.

Your actions today, not the unknowns of tomorrow.

Practicing the Shift

The next time you catch yourself spiraling into worry about what you can’t control, pause and ask:

“Is this in my hands or out of my hands?”

If it’s out of your hands, release it. If it’s in your hands, take one small action. That tiny shift can stop worry from bleeding into the parts of life that deserve your best energy.

 Remember: your peace, focus, and progress depend less on controlling everything and more on knowing what to let go of.