Be the CEO of Your Own Life: Internal vs. External Locus of Control
- Dr. Janice Moran
- 7 days ago
- 4 min read
Let's Talk About Locus of Control
What is locus of control? Locus of control refers to the location of the control of your success and happiness. No matter how influential someone may be in our lives, we solely bear full responsibility for all of the life choices we make.
There are far more advantages to having an internal locus of control (IC) than an external locus of control (EC).
The Internal Locus of Control
People with an IC are internally motivated. They take responsibility for both their successes and setbacks. They don’t externalize fault or credit for everything that goes on in their lives.
Someone with an IC acknowledges support and gives credit where it’s due. They also take accountability for their actions toward others, but not for the choices others make.
Examples of IC statements:
“I was late, because I didn’t allow enough time for traffic.”
“I didn’t make a good grade, because I didn’t study.”
“I aced that exam, because I worked super hard.”
“My team and I put on a fabulous presentation.”
The challenge of IC: sometimes, these individuals may forget that others aren’t always as driven or invested in a project as they are. At the extreme, IC can become micromanagement fueled by an overemphasis on goals.
The External Locus of Control
People who tend toward EC often put accountability on someone else or on outside forces.
Yes, unforeseen circumstances do happen—but the real question is: what’s your part in it? If something is outside your control, what choice do you make with the information, or how do you handle the aftermath?
Examples of EC statements:
“Trouble follows me wherever I go.”
“I was late because traffic was bad.”
“I passed, because the teacher likes me.”
“I didn’t do well, because the teacher is hard.”
“My team put on a great presentation, because my teammates are awesome. I was just there.”
“I act this way, because that’s how I was raised.”
The trap of EC: people can fall into a victim complex, believing they lack influence over their own lives.
A Spectrum, Not a Binary
Loci of control exist on a spectrum. We all lean toward one end or the other most of the time.
But mistakes don’t have to weigh us down. Instead, we can choose to see them as opportunities to grow. We can choose to forgive ourselves—even if others don’t. Either way, we can choose to move forward.
I choose to honor my sovereignty. I choose to take responsibility for my choices, feelings, and actions. I will not take responsibility for anyone else’s.
Remember: The world is a mirror, not a window. Don’t give away your sovereignty. Be the CEO of your own life.
Responding vs. Reacting
Responding, rather than reacting, is a great example of using choice as control.
I’d rather someone consciously respond to me than give a knee-jerk reaction. Of course, we all react at times—that’s part of being human. But the lesson is in what we do with the experience:
Do we live in shame or regret?
Or do we level up into the next version of ourselves?
Personally, I live with no shame or regrets. I still have insecurities—that’s natural. But I’ve learned to accept, like, and love who I am.
I want nothing less for each of you. May you grow comfortable in your own skin. May you find love, kindness, and respect within yourself so you can give them to others.
Everything flows from the inside out.
At the end of the day, I hope you will:
Choose love.
Choose peace.
Choose happiness.
Choose forgiveness (of yourself and others).
Choose to live fully and without regrets.
Core Beliefs to Live By
There’s always another adventure around the corner—someone new to meet, somewhere new to go, something new to try, something new to read or watch.
Everything is temporary. The pendulum always swings.
Everything works out, even if we can’t see the result or wouldn’t have planned it that way.
Trust yourself, and trust the process.
It’s simple, but it’s not easy. You are worthy. You are worth it.
Now go out and get it.
Ready to Step Into Your Power?
If you’re ready to start making empowered choices, we’re here to support you. At Her Time Therapy, we help women strengthen self-trust, build confidence, and take back control of their lives.
You can learn to respond with intention, release shame, and choose peace, love, and freedom for yourself—one step at a time.
Learn more about our therapists and book your free consultation here.
About the Author
Janice Moran, PhD, LPC-S, is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Clinical Supervisor serving clients in Texas, Colorado, and Utah. She specializes in trauma, anxiety, OCD, religious trauma, narcissistic abuse, aend couples and family therapy. As a blind therapist, Dr. Moran brings both clinical expertise and lived experience, offering disability-affirming care rooted in social justice. She also provides clinical supervision, mentoring new therapists in trauma-informed and culturally responsive practice.
Disclaimer: This blog does not provide medical advice; the information contained herein is for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of a licensed health provider before starting a new treatment regimen.
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