Have you ever noticed that some people have a “can do” attitude while others constantly make excuses and blame others for their circumstances? Well, that’s considered a locus of control. Some people have an internal locus of control – those are the “can do” people and others have an external locus of control – those are the people who blame others.

What does this mean?

It just refers to the person’s belief of who controls their life. People who have an external locus of control think that they do not have any control over their life or circumstances. They believe that because their parents were poor or crappy that they are destined to also live that life; they can’t change it. Or that a teacher they had wasn’t fair so their grade was bad. It is never anything they have done (or haven’t done) that created their situation.
People who have an internal locus of control believe that they ARE in control of their own life. They know that it doesn’t matter the situation they were born into or if the teacher isn’t fair. They find another way. The go out and look for opportunities or answers the teacher isn’t giving them.
Which type of person do you think will be more successful? The one with an internal locus of control or external? I think the answer to this is pretty obvious.

Can you change your locus of control?

While this may be a hard habit to break, the first step in making your life better requires you to change from an external to an internal locus of control. You have to have the attitude that YOU are in control and there are steps YOU can take to change your situation. Because guess what? YOU CAN! And believe me, once you make this switch – its extremely liberating. You will feel so incredibly powerful!!!

How do you change your locus of control?

Here are some tips for changing from an external to an internal locus of control:

• DON’T: Blame your boss for a lack of direction on a project or a task at work (external)
• DO: Take it upon yourself to ask more questions and get more clarity if you are unsure. (internal)

Don’t get hung up about making the boss mad by asking questions. Most bosses will appreciate you wanting to make sure you understand the task so you can do it right the first time.

• DON’T: Stay in a job you hate, maybe with a horrible boss (one who might be upset with you asking questions)
• DO: Start working on your resume and looking for another job

Are you unqualified for the job you want?

• DON’T: Blame the education system, or lack of money for college
• DO: Start taking the steps necessary to get the qualifications.

Worried you can’t afford to get more education?

• DON’T: Blame your financial situation
• DO: Invest in yourself. Get student loans, look for grants and scholarships (there are TONS out there – especially if you’re a single mother!).

A simple Google search can offer up lots of grant sites: https://studentaid.gov/understand-aid/types/grants

• DON’T: Continue making excuses for everything
• DO: Start saying “YES” Start by taking ONE day and try not to complain about anything.

If you catch yourself starting to complain, be aware of it and correct it immediately. If you can do 1 day, then try 2-days and so on! It will change your locus of control and YOUR LIFE!