How to Take Back Your Power

On The Verywell Mind Podcast, Amy Morin, LCSW, shares the "Friday Fix"—a short episode featuring a quick, actionable tip or exercise to help you manage a specific mental health issue or concern.

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Friday Fix: Episode 61

It's impossible to feel mentally strong when you're giving away your power. But, it's easy to get caught up in thinking traps that leave you feeling helpless. There may be several ways in which you give away your power without even realizing that you're doing it.

• You might waste a lot of time thinking about someone you don't like. That means you give that person power over your time.

• You might let someone treat you poorly. Perhaps you don't dare speak up because you don't want to seem rude—but then you blame the other person for ruining your day. That means you give that person power over your life.

• Even holding onto a grudge might give someone power over you. Perhaps you waste tons of mental and emotional energy staying angry at someone who hurt you.

Holding onto that grudge only affects you, not them. And ultimately, you give that person more power over you.

To retain your personal power, you need to:

• Take responsibility for the way you think, feel, and act.

• Be proactive in how much time and energy you devote to the people and activities in your life.

In today's episode of The Verywell Mind Podcast, I'll share a simple but powerful exercise that can help you take back your power so you feel more in control.

It's an exercise I use often in my therapy office. And while it can feel a little scary at first, empowering yourself can also open the door to opportunities you never thought possible.