I needed to be the one to change my friend and my brother; I had to be the one to help my dad financially. Bottom line, my sanity depended on being in control. The burdens were great but I took them on, found purpose, and than sadly I found disappointment. You may think me dense but it honestly took me years to realize a harsh reality of life.

My epiphany I could not control anyone but myself, and I could not change every person or event that bombarded me.

The first step is to realize that I had to find a different way of coping with each daily trial. I had to distinguish between those things that I had the power to change and control as opposed to the ones that I could not.

Second step is to relax. I could no longer allow myself to be worked into a stressful frenzy. I may not be able to change my brother's mind or my dear friend but because I was calm and thinking rationally I was capable of giving advice, lending an open ear, and most importantly being a strong support in their time of hardship.

Third step is to renew. This one may sound a little silly but let me explain. Doing a variety of activities that I enjoy has truly helped me to remember the most important aspects of life. I maintain a firm and steadfast relationship with my religious beliefs. I exercise each week, on any given day you can catch me running, biking, playing tennis, and attending classes. I also enjoy writing, and reading. Each of these activities helps reduce anxiety and worry, and gives me the freedom to think clearly.

I want to revert back to the quote at the top of this article. "The control center of your life is your attitude." This is a great quote; attitude will either make you or break you. Major or minor crisis will always occur it is inevitable. It is how you choose to deal with them and your outlook that will determine a positive or negative outcome not only for others involved but also for yourself.

My life is still filled with twists and turns. Heck everyone can relate to that. You have your family, your friends, work, and all the wonderful moments in between. Embracing a different outlook when faced with difficulties and problems is the only way you will be able to thrive and succeed. Don't sweat the small and trivial things; they will only distract you from your important priorities. If you have yet to find a way to let go of those things you can't control, then today is the day to change the one thing that you are able. As I have mentioned that is yourself, you are the one constant in this crazy and unpredictable world. You control your choices; you control your attitude, if you are seeking for happiness and peace you will find it.