All summer, just outside my window, I have been watching the hummingbirds battle over our feeder. The smallest of them we call Tiny. (Okay, I know what you are thinking, but sometimes you just have to go with the obvious!)
Anyway, Tiny has decided that the feeder is his alone and worthy of protection. He sits atop the feeder, hour after hour, chasing away any incoming snackers. Periodically he zips down for a drink, but quickly returns to his post. Even the cat tapping on the window does not distract him from his self-appointed duty.
Tiny is like a little air traffic controller, always on shift. I figured all the chasing and protecting exhausted him. I wished I could explain to the little guy that there will always be enough food for everyone as we happily replenish the nectar as often as needed.
Am I like Tiny, always chasing someone for approval or protecting myself from mistreatment? Am I exhausting myself in useless activity?
“You can be the air traffic controller of your mental airport. Thoughts circle above, coming and going. If one of them lands, it is because you gave it permission. If it leaves, it is because you directed it to do so.” Max Lucado
This quote reminded me of a post I had previously written about the circle of control. It is like being a pilot in the cockpit. I control the plane: what happens inside the plane, but not the weather: factors outside myself.
“We control anxiety with self-care by keeping in mind our circle of control. This helps us avoid unrealistic expectations or crossing over into worry…”
Boundaries, control, choices.
Don’t be like Tiny and wear yourself out chasing things you have no control over. Protect yourself by making personal choices about boundaries that preserve your joy!
I created a helpful graphic called the “Control Action Sheet: You are the Pilot!” It lists things in your control and out of your control. Download a free PDF here!
“Because you are my helper, I sing for joy in the shadow of your wings.” Psalm 63:7
“Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.” Proverbs 4:23
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