Don’t give control to anyone

Do you know that a lot of people around you have an opinion about who you should be? It is the reason someone didn’t thank you when you did something good for them. They expected that you should do it, so what do they care about how you feel after doing it? It is also the reason people blamed you when you failed. You are supposed to be perfect. So, why did you fail? In fact, those around you always know what you should do, where you should go, how you should dress, what you should say, the friends you should have, what you should buy and the person you should marry. You are the only one who doesn’t know; others do. A lot of people are under the bondage of somebody in their life who has strong control over them. Note that I used the word “control”. Some people cannot live their own lives without following the dictates of others.
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One thing I learned very early in my life is to be independent. I learn from others, and I hear the opinions of others, but I strive to live based on my convictions and not by someone else’s control or manipulation. Should the outcome of your life not be based on your own convictions and philosophy? Do you have a personal philosophy that you developed based on knowledge, experience, and sound judgement? If you do, then you are not supposed to be carried around by the opinions of others. Opinions are abundant, but reasoning is scarce. The problem with being controlled by others is that those who are controlled do not feel fulfilled. There is no satisfaction in living one’s life just to please others.

It is time to stand up for yourself. It is time to exercise your freedom of thought and choice. After all, only you are responsible for the outcome of your life. No one may be held responsible for how things turn out for you and me. Everyone is responsible for their own decisions. Meanwhile, there is much wisdom in the counsel of those who are wise. You may ask for directions but ensure that you chart your own course. Don’t give control of your life to any human being. Live life thoughtfully and deliberately, taking personal responsibility every step of the way.

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Actions for the week

1. Evaluate yourself. Do you live by your own conviction, or do you simply follow the opinions of others? Be the judge.
2. Determine to construct your own philosophy and convictions based on knowledge and sound judgement. Then live by them.
3. Share this message with those in your network.

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​A quote to remember
“If you own this story you get to write the ending.” – Brené Brown.

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Until another time,
Dele Ola, Award-Winning Author of Be A Change Agent
​Click HERE to learn about and get copies of Dele’s Books