How to Manage & Better Understanding Stress | Dr Elissa Epel (6 min 26 sec)
“A high sense of perceived control in life is associated with being happy, healthy and wealthy. Feeling in control of our lives helps us regulate emotions and be more resilient
When we feel more control we have lower emotional reactivity to stressful things that may happen at work, home or in our social networks. After a stressful event, people with a high sense of control, not only feel less anxious but also have fewer physical symptoms, like headaches, stomachaches or pain.” Dr. Elissa Epel, The Stress Prescription
In her book The Stress Prescription, Dr. Elissa Epel delves into a critical yet often overlooked aspect of human psychology: perceived control. The idea that having a high sense of control over our lives can significantly influence our happiness, health, and even wealth is not just a theoretical concept—it’s rooted in both scientific research and practical experience.
Why Perceived Control Matters
Perceived control is essentially the belief that we can influence the events and outcomes in our lives. When we feel in control, we’re not just navigating life’s challenges; we’re actively shaping our experiences. This sense of empowerment allows us to regulate our emotions more effectively, making us more resilient in the face of adversity.
Consider this: when life throws unexpected stressors our way—whether at work, at home, or within our social circles—how we respond is often dictated by our perceived level of control. Those who believe they have control over their circumstances tend to react less emotionally to stress. This doesn't mean they avoid stress entirely, but they manage it in a way that minimizes its impact.
The Connection to Emotional and Physical Well-being
Dr. Epel highlights an important link between perceived control and emotional reactivity. When we feel in control, we're less likely to be overwhelmed by stress, and as a result, our emotional responses are more measured. This reduced emotional reactivity is not just a psychological benefit—it has tangible effects on our physical health as well.
For example, after a stressful event, individuals with a strong sense of control often report fewer physical symptoms such as headaches, stomachaches, or pain. This connection between the mind and body underscores how powerful our beliefs and perceptions can be. When we feel in control, we essentially buffer ourselves against the negative physical effects of stress, contributing to overall well-being.
The Broader Impact: Wealth and Success
The benefits of perceived control extend beyond emotional and physical health. There's a growing body of research suggesting that individuals who feel in control of their lives are also more likely to achieve financial success. This might be because a high sense of control fosters a proactive mindset, leading to better decision-making, perseverance, and a willingness to take calculated risks.
When you believe you have the power to influence your financial outcomes, you’re more likely to set and achieve financial goals, seek out opportunities, and navigate challenges with confidence. In essence, perceived control creates a positive feedback loop that enhances both personal and professional success.
Cultivating Perceived Control
The good news is that perceived control isn't fixed; it's something we can cultivate. Here are a few strategies to help build and maintain a high sense of control:
1. Set Clear Goals: Break down your larger aspirations into smaller, manageable tasks. Achieving these small milestones can boost your sense of control.
2. Focus on What You Can Control: While we can't control everything, focusing on the aspects of a situation that we can influence helps to reinforce the belief that we are in charge of our own lives.
3. Develop Problem-Solving Skills: When faced with challenges, approach them with a problem-solving mindset. This not only helps in finding solutions but also reinforces the belief that you can influence outcomes.
4. Practice Mindfulness: Being present and mindful can reduce feelings of helplessness and increase your awareness of the choices you have in any given situation.
Perceived control is more than just a mindset; it’s a powerful tool that can shape our happiness, health, and success. By cultivating a strong sense of control, we can navigate life’s inevitable challenges with resilience, reducing the emotional and physical toll of stress. As Dr. Epel's work suggests, the key to thriving in life may lie in how we perceive our ability to influence the world around us.
In a world that often feels chaotic, reclaiming our sense of control may just be the prescription we need for a healthier, happier, and more prosperous life.
Get After It!!
-Austin
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