Hardiness

CHAPTER 6Understanding Hardiness-Control

“Ultimately, the only power to which man should aspire is that which he exercises over himself.”

—Elie Wiesel (Writer, professor, Nobel Laureate, Holocaust survivor)

How much do you feel you are in control of events around you? Do you believe the world is getting out of control and there is little anyone can do to change things? Or do you feel there is a piece of the world where you have a good sense of control? Where we see ourselves and our sense of control over the things around us plays an important role in our ability to overcome the challenges that we encounter in life.

The control part of the hardiness model involves a strong belief that you can influence outcomes in your life, and you are willing to make choices and accept responsibility for those choices. It captures how much in control you feel of your destiny, despite the uncertainty that is often associated with the future.

People who have a strong sense of control tend to approach new situations with confidence because they believe that they can influence the results. Researchers have long recognized that people generally want control, and it is to their benefit for an individual to feel like they are in control of situations that are occurring. Feeling in control allows you to think that you can safely and effectively manage your environment and life circumstances, even when stressful situations come your way.

Taking Control When Your Body Can’t: Michael J. Fox

Michael ...