Many people spend their lives at the mercy of circumstances, not living in the present because they are stuck in the prison of their past. If you want to live a great life, you must avoid being controlled by these five things:
1. Your Past
Your past should never control your present or future. Whatever has happened is done and dusted. Holding onto past pain, failures, or injustices only hinders your progress. Reliving past events won’t change them. If someone wronged you, let go and move on. Living in hate or victimhood means those who wronged you win. To truly win, focus on building your future and start now. Release the weight of your past and embrace the present moment, which is perfect and ready for you to enjoy fully. Philippians 3:13-14, “Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus”.
2. Other People’s Opinions and Judgments
Allowing other people’s opinions to dictate your life’s direction can lead you down unwanted paths. The need to fit in and feel accepted can cause you to compromise your true desires. Before making decisions, ask yourself if you’re doing it out of your own will or fear of judgment. You were born unique, meant to stand out and be appreciated for who you are. Don’t dim your light to blend into the dull background of others’ expectations. Shine brightly, and those who care will shine with you. Psalm 139:14, “I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvelous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.”
3. Limited Beliefs
Often, we are controlled by our own limiting beliefs, many of which are unconscious and have been ingrained in us since childhood. These beliefs can prevent us from reaching our true potential. Identify and challenge these beliefs. There is nothing you cannot do, have, or become if you believe in yourself. When you change your belief from limited to unlimited, your potential becomes boundless. Live as though miracles are a daily expectation. Remember, when there is no enemy within, no external challenge can defeat you. Your life transforms the moment you decide to change your mindset and view every situation as an opportunity. Luke 1:37, “For with God nothing will be impossible.”
4. Relationships
While love and connection are powerful, relying on relationships for happiness can lead to instability. If your happiness depends on being with someone, you risk constant unhappiness if the relationship falters or ends. Build enough mental strength to be happy alone. This doesn’t mean avoiding relationships, but rather being content with yourself first. Being equally happy alone or in a relationship ensures you are never dependent on another person for your well-being.
5. Money
Money is a major controlling factor for many people. While wanting abundance is not wrong, making decisions based solely on financial gain often leads to unfulfilling choices. Instead, lead with the intention to serve others and give your best. When you follow your heart and intuition, the money will follow, often in greater amounts than if you had simply chased it. Live a life where your choices are driven by passion and purpose, not by money.
Conclusion
Challenge yourself to live a life free from these controlling influences. Embrace your freedom and create a life you truly want to live.