Open Your Eyes with McKay Christensen S3E08 - Take Control
McKay is back this week for another inspiring episode as he explores the compelling theme of taking back control in our lives. Guiding the audience through the maze of personal agency, our host skillfully intertwines research and observations with some truly awe-inspiring stories to illuminate the significance of maintaining a sense of control and also provide practical strategies to regain it in the face of adversity.
Along the way, McKay unveils the captivating world of aircraft carriers, painting a vivid picture of their colossal presence as symbols of control. Citing research findings as well as the incredible stories of Admiral Jim Stockdale and Viktor Frankl, he showcases the stark contrast between individuals with high and low senses of control, and encourages listeners to prioritize mental peace and embrace grace and resilience when faced with adversity. This powerful episode concludes with McKay reminding listeners of their inherent power to choose their responses and beckoning them to unlock the transformative potential of taking control in their lives.
Episode Highlights:
- The concept of sense of control and its impact on mental health
- Victor Frankl's experiences and observations on maintaining control in extreme circumstances
- The freedom to choose our responses and practical strategies for regaining control
- The significance of taking back control in our lives
- The Stockdale Paradox and Admiral Jim Stockdale's resilience
- Reflecting on past choices and realizing the power to change future outcomes
- The impact of choices on personal growth and unexpected opportunities
- Understanding who we are, what we want, and what truly matters
- The significance of pausing, choosing, and embracing the space between stimulus and response
- Facing the brutal facts and rising to become our true selves
Quotes:
"Sense of control refers to an individual's belief in their ability to influence the outcomes of events in their lives."
"Between stimulus and response, man has the freedom to choose."
"Step back, pause, and choose your response to regain control."
"Why disturb your mental peace for something that doesn't really matter or isn't even worth the trouble?"
"You must never confuse faith that you will prevail in the end, which you can never afford to lose, with the discipline to confront the most brutal facts of your current reality, whatever they may be."
"Every good choice we make lets us say, 'I'm going to do my best and let the rest take care of itself.' It gives us control.’"
"When you make up your mind, you can do remarkable things. But it is the making up of the mind that is the challenge."
"You don't have to do everything, but you can do something good today. So choose that good thing and watch how you will rise to take back control and be who you know you can and should be."
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