Worrying and trying to obsessively control things you can’t control doesn’t work. It’s a waste of time and energy. It doesn’t prevent bad things from happening and it leads to more stress and more anxiety. In general, the better strategy is to accept the things you can’t control and commit to focusing on, and working with, what you can control.

Make a list of the things that cause you stress. Then decide which things on the list you can take action on and which ones you can't. This can remind you what's in your control and what isn't. Look for sources of stress that you can limit. Then take steps to limit them.

You may want to learn how to stop worrying about what you can't control, but you may not be sure how to go about doing this. In this case, there are several methods of treatment or lifestyle changes that might benefit you, such as therapy, medication, or radical acceptance skills.

For the stressors that you do not have control over: Accept the fact that the stressor exists (this does not mean you need to approve of it) Acknowledge that you do not control the situation (s) Use other coping skills to cope with distress