We have more information at our fingertips than any generation before us. And as artificial intelligence becomes more capable—and more integrated into our daily lives—that stream of information isn’t slowing down. It’s accelerating.
The challenge is that the more we know about what’s happening in the world, the easier it is to feel overwhelmed by it.
Every movement in the stock market. Every election. Every natural disaster halfway around the globe. Every notification, headline, text message, and credit card alert. They all show up through the same screens and buzz with the same urgency. Over time, that constant noise can leave us feeling anxious, discouraged, and uncertain about the future.
That’s why it’s never been more important to clearly separate what deserves our attention from what simply demands it—and to focus our energy on the things we actually have the ability to impact.
Draw Your Circles
Stephen Covey introduced a helpful framework in The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People that does just that. He suggested organizing our worries and responsibilities into three concentric circles.
From largest to smallest, they are:
The Circle of Concern
This includes everything you might worry about—big or small. Global events, economic trends, political outcomes, the future cost of healthcare, or next month’s car payment. It’s the widest circle, and it contains the other two.
The Circle of Influence
These are the things you care about and can influence, but don’t fully control. You can’t force an employer to offer you a job, but you can strengthen your skills and update your résumé. You can’t guarantee a college acceptance letter for your child, but you can help them prepare, apply thoughtfully, and put their best foot forward.
The Circle of Control
This is where your choices have the most direct impact. You can decide what you eat and how often you exercise. You can adjust how you spend, save, and give. You can prioritize time with your spouse, your family, and the people who matter most. This is the circle where action leads to meaningful change.
Taking time to reflect on your own circles can be a powerful exercise.
Grab a piece of paper. Draw three circles—or create three columns—and start listing the things you’ve been worried about lately.
Which circle fills up the fastest?
Which one occupies most of your mental energy?
And which concerns could be reduced—or eliminated—through thoughtful action?
Life-Centered Thinking
When we spend too much time focused outside of our Circle of Control, it’s easy to feel stuck. Worry turns into anxiety. Anxiety leads to inaction. And before long, life feels like it’s happening to us instead of being shaped by us.
But when we intentionally focus on what we can control, something shifts. Our actions begin to influence the areas of life that matter most:
- Wellbeing: Chronic stress takes a toll on both mind and body. Purposeful action, even small steps, tends to restore a sense of balance.
- Progress: Standing still rarely feels good. Focusing on controllable goals allows forward momentum—day by day, decision by decision.
- Freedom: When your happiness is less dependent on external events, you gain flexibility and confidence. You can envision the future you want and begin planning toward it.
If you’d like help clarifying what’s truly within your control—especially as it relates to your finances, career, or upcoming life transitions—we’re here to help. Our Life‑Centered Planning process is designed to open new conversations, uncover fresh perspectives, and connect your resources to the life you want to live—today and in the years ahead.
Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, Member FINRA/ SIPC.
This is a hypothetical situation based on real life examples. Names and circumstances have been changed. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine which investments or strategies may be appropriate for you, consult your advisor prior to investing.
Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, Member FINRA/ SIPC.
This is a hypothetical situation based on real life examples. Names and circumstances have been changed. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine which investments or strategies may be appropriate for you, consult your advisor prior to investing.