Ever wonder why some people thrive despite setbacks while others feel stuck? It comes down to Locus of Control—the belief about whether you control your life or if external forces dictate your fate.
In this article, you’ll discover:
- How Locus of Control impacts success, health, and relationships
- The differences between an Internal and External Locus of Control
- Strategies to shift toward an empowering mindset
What is Locus of Control?
Psychologist Julian Rotter introduced this concept in the 1950s, identifying two types:
- Internal Locus of Control – You believe your actions shape your future.
- External Locus of Control – You think luck, fate, or others determine your life.
Example: Two employees miss a promotion.
- Internal mindset: “I’ll improve my skills and prove my worth.”
- External mindset: “My boss is unfair. There’s nothing I can do.”
Now, which mindset do you think leads to success?
Why Your Locus of Control Matters
Your mindset affects every part of life:
Career: Internal thinkers take initiative, seek growth, and advance faster. External thinkers blame external factors and feel powerless.
Health: Internals make healthier choices, while externals may neglect their well-being, believing illness is “just bad luck.”
Resilience: Internals see failure as a learning opportunity, whereas externals see it as proof of their limitations.
Signs You Have an Internal vs. External Locus of Control
| Internal Locus of Control | External Locus of Control |
| Takes responsibility | Blames external factors |
| Proactive & goal-driven | Passive & reactive |
| Views failure as a lesson | Feels helpless after failure |
| Believes effort = success | Believes luck = success |
How to Shift from an External to an Internal Locus of Control
- Recognize Your Thought Patterns – Notice when you blame circumstances. Ask, “What can I do to change this?”
- Take Responsibility for Your Actions – Accept that your choices influence outcomes. Instead of saying, “I never get lucky,” say, “How can I create opportunities?”
- Develop a Growth Mindset – See challenges as a chance to grow. Failure isn’t the end—it’s feedback.
- Set Goals & Take Small Steps – Success builds confidence. Start by controlling small things, like your morning routine, then tackle bigger goals.
- Surround Yourself with Proactive People – Attitudes are contagious. Spend time with people who take charge of their lives.
- Reframe Problems as Challenges – Instead of thinking, “I have no control over this,” ask, “What part of this can I influence?”
Final Thoughts: The Power to Change is in Your Hands
Your mindset shapes your reality. The more you shift toward an Internal Locus of Control, the more confident, resilient, and successful you become.
Action Step: Choose one strategy from this list and apply it today!
Remember, you are in control. So, what will you do with it?