4 things you don't have to worry about
Things you are not responsible for and shouldn’t blame yourself for (Photo: Freepik)
Modern life is full of stress - deadlines, news, family problems. Often, we add to our own burden by worrying about things we have no control over. This is a direct path to anxiety and insomnia.
RBC-Ukraine explains four things you are definitely not responsible for and shouldn't take on.
Other people’s moods
You cannot make someone happy or unhappy. While your actions may influence the emotions of those close to you, their reactions are solely their responsibility. Adjusting your life to someone else’s comfort is a big mistake.
Decisions of others
Giving advice is fine, but be careful - offer guidance only when asked and in a way that won’t cause harm. You cannot live someone else’s life for them. Solving problems for another person robs them of the chance to learn and gain experience. Worst of all, if something goes wrong, you’ll be blamed.
Results of your own efforts
You can give your best, but the outcome doesn’t depend solely on you. Many factors influence it - from the weather to luck. Your task is to do quality work within your control.
Expectations of others
Other people’s dreams and expectations are not your responsibility. If you live to meet the expectations of parents, friends, or colleagues, you lose your own life. Set your own goals and move toward where your heart calls you.
The brain often tricks us into believing that control will make us calmer. But this is just an illusion that leads to unnecessary worry. Remind yourself that you are only responsible for your own actions, words, and decisions. Everything else is beyond your control.
Sources: the article Setting Healthy Boundaries & Build Positive Relationships on PositivePsychology, the article Setting Healthy Boundaries in Relationships on HelpGuide, and the article How to Set Boundaries With Friends - and Why It’s Necessary on Verywell Mind.
