The Structure of the Exercise

The tool consists of three concentric circles:

1. Inner Circle – What I Can Control

This includes:

• My reaction
• My tone
• My effort
• My preparation
• My behaviour

This is the area where personal responsibility lies.

The Structure of the Exercise

The tool consists of three concentric circles:

1. Inner Circle – What I Can Control

This includes:

• My reaction
• My tone
• My effort
• My preparation
• My behaviour

This is the area where personal responsibility lies.

2. Middle Circle – What I Can Influence

This includes:

• Team communication
• Group atmosphere
• Discussions
• Relationships
• Outcomes through negotiation

This area requires collaboration and communication skills.

3. Outer Circle – What I Cannot Control

This includes:

• Other people’s emotions
• Company policies
• Economic changes
• Unexpected events
• Past mistakes

Recognising this boundary reduces unnecessary stress.

Step 2: Map the Situation Visually

Provide a blank Circle of Control diagram.

Ask learners to write or draw elements of the situation into the three circles.

Examples:

Outer Circle:

• “My boss’s mood”

• “Company decision”

Middle Circle:

• “How I explain my perspective”

• “How I respond in discussion”

Inner Circle:

• “My tone”

• “My preparation”

• “My body language”

Encourage discussion but avoid judgment.

The goal is awareness, not blame.

Step 2: Map the Situation Visually

Provide a blank Circle of Control diagram.

Ask learners to write or draw elements of the situation into the three circles.

Examples:

Outer Circle:

• “My boss’s mood”

• “Company decision”

Middle Circle:

• “How I explain my perspective”

• “How I respond in discussion”

Inner Circle:

• “My tone”

• “My preparation”

• “My body language”

Encourage discussion but avoid judgment.

The goal is awareness, not blame.

Step 3: Guided Reflection

Ask learners:

• Where are you currently focusing most of your energy?
• Is it inside or outside your control?
• What happens when you focus on things you cannot control?

This step often leads to powerful insights.

What Skills This Exercise Develops

The Circle of Control strengthens:

• Emotional regulation
• Adaptability
• Conflict management
• Decision-making
• Responsibility
• Leadership mindset
• Stress management

It is particularly effective for adults who:

• Experience anxiety in group settings
• Feel overwhelmed by workplace expectations
• Struggle with self-confidence
• Have difficulty separating emotion from action