When Life Feels Out of Control: Anchoring Yourself in Purpose
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When Life Feels Out of Control: Anchoring Yourself in Purpose

“You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them.” Maya Angelou

We all have moments when life feels like it is spinning faster than we can keep up. One minute, everything seems steady, and the next, things are shifting beneath our feet. Plans unravel, relationships change, careers take unexpected turns, and uncertainty takes over.

When life feels out of control, it is easy to spiral into frustration, fear, and overwhelm. But here is the truth: while you may not control what happens, you can control how you respond.

Your Anchor in the Storm: Purpose

Purpose is the steady force that keeps you grounded when everything else feels shaky. When you are rooted in who you are and why you are here, circumstances may shift, but you remain unshaken.

So, how do you anchor yourself in purpose when life feels chaotic?

1. Shift from “Why me?” to “What’s Next?”

Instead of getting stuck in the frustration of why things are happening, ask:

  • What can I learn from this?
  • What is this moment trying to teach me?
  • How can I grow through this experience?

Shifting your mindset from victim to student empowers you to see challenges as stepping stones rather than roadblocks.

2. Get Clear on What Truly Matters

Not everything deserves your energy. In times of uncertainty, focus on what aligns with your purpose. Ask yourself:

  • Am I spending my time and energy on things that align with my values?
  • Is this problem temporary, or am I giving it too much power?
  • How can I shift my focus to what I can control?

Clarity allows you to let go of distractions and prioritize what truly moves you forward.

3. Strengthen Your Faith & Mindset

The enemy of purpose is distraction. Fear, doubt, and worry pull you away from who you were created to be. Combat this by:

  • Praying for guidance and peace.
  • Speaking life over yourself with affirmations.
  • Surrounding yourself with people who uplift and remind you of your purpose.

When you are spiritually and mentally strong, external chaos does not shake you as easily.

4. Take Small, Purposeful Steps

Feeling stuck? Move anyway. Even small actions in the right direction help you regain control. Identify one step you can take today that aligns with your long-term purpose.

  • If you feel overwhelmed at work, take 10 minutes to organize your priorities.
  • If you are struggling with self-doubt, journal about three things you have accomplished.
  • If life feels uncertain, lean into your faith and trust that clarity will come with time.

No matter how out of control life may feel, remember this: You are not lost. You are not powerless. You are anchored in purpose.

Your Next Step

What is one small step you can take today to anchor yourself in purpose? Reply and let me know-I would love to hear how you are moving forward!

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To anchor myself in Purpose this week I wrote down (again) my strategic goals at work, for my family, and for myself for the year. Coming back to the high level goals - making sure I am still moving toward the intention I had set - allowed me to visulize my purpose and see the path forward. I feel writing these down each week on Sunday evening is a great habit for me to start!

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