Uncertainty. Everyone’s felt uncertain about something. Whether it’s about university applications, mortgage payments, or career-related, we’ve all felt it in one way or another.
Coping with uncertainty has got to be one of the most difficult skills to master. Why? Because most things that we are uncertain about tend to be only partly in our control. Often, we tend to feel that pit in our stomach because we know that it’s not completely up to us how things will turn out.
In psychology, there is a concept called locus of control, which refers to how much control an individual perceives to have over their own behavior (Lopez-Garrido, 2023). There are two types: internal and external. Individuals with an internal locus of control perceive themselves as having immense control over their behavior, while those with an external locus of control believe the opposite (Figure 1).
Figure 1: Internal and External Locus of Control
From Lopez-Garrido, 2023
Developing an internal locus of control is essential for coping with uncertainty. It’s most definitely easier said than done but catching yourself and reframing your thoughts to be in more control is a great place to start!
However, it is crucial to have a balance: we can have an internal locus of control and still recognize when something is out of control. It’s more about seizing control over what can be controlled!
Lopez-Garrido, G. (2023, February 8). Locus of Control Theory in Psychology:
Definition & Examples. Simply Psychology. https://www.simplypsychology.org/locus-of-control.html
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