As human beings, we are capable of doing many things — both good and bad. We believe we can control how life should be sustained on Earth: how to grow food, how to travel the world, and how to create tools that make life easier. We convince ourselves that we control our external circumstances.

But when I think deeply, I find the opposite to be true.

Let’s start from the beginning.
When I was born, did I choose my parents?
Did I choose the family, place, or country where I would take my first breath?

As I grew, could I control my surroundings or how others behaved toward me?
I had expectations from people — but were they fulfilled every time? Of course not.

The only thing I could truly control was my response to external events.
It is always my choice how I behave and what level of satisfaction I allow myself to feel.

The only thing I can consistently improve is myself.
My only real competition is me.
Was I better today than I was yesterday?

So, my message to you is this:
If you ever feel stuck, irritated, or discouraged because of external factors, don’t take them to heart — because external factors will never be in your control.

If you maintain discipline and consistency, you can overcome difficult times.
Even the greatest talent becomes useless without discipline and practice.

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