The circle of control is a nifty concept originally introduced by Stephen Covey, famed writer of the 7 Habits. What's interesting about it is that it helps us understand the world we operate in from the perspective of what we can control, what we can influence (circle of influence) and what we cannot do anything about, but still worries us (circle of concern).
Putting things in perspective using this tool is a very effectivel way to figure out what we have agency over and therefore can control, at least in some way, while outlining the things we can't control. What ends up happening is that we realize that we have more agency than we think. But it also helps identify areas of life we cannot do anything about that are better left for others to worry about.
I personally find similar benefits from practicing meditation up to 2 hours a day, as I have to learn to let my thoughts go in order to effectively meditate. It forces one to abandon useless worries.
In the process of building things, there are many things that escape us. How do we deal with them? Is there a way to design buildings and environments that gives designers more agency?
Joshua Prince-Ramus seems to think so.
What about you? Are there things you choose to ignore for your own sanity?
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