A recent email hit my inbox:
“Dear Sudesh,
Thank you for your interest in offering services to ABC Limited. After reviewing all proposals, yours was not selected.
We appreciate your effort and hope to work together in the future.
Kind Regards,”
I used to receive these and crash for a full day — replaying everything, nursing the disappointment. Then I asked myself: “If I gave it my absolute best, why waste another second feeling bad?”
That question changed everything. I can’t control the client’s decision or force honest feedback. But I can control my response. Now I read the email, learn what I can, and move on.
Stephen Covey’s concept finally clicked for me.
Years ago, my Circle of Influence was tiny — just inches wide. I blamed the economy, clients, luck — everything except myself. All my energy went into things I couldn’t change, leaving nothing for real progress. I was barely balancing on a narrow cone, complaining just to stay upright.
Today, that circle spans kilometers. Days flow easily, and I achieve far more. The difference? I stopped fighting the outer Circle of Concern and poured every ounce of effort into what I can control.
Quick Test for You
Imagine your own circle right now.
Is it six inches across, with you desperately balancing on its tip? If so, your whole day is spent trying not to fall — with zero energy left for growth. Now picture redirecting that energy inward: sharpening your skills, refining your proposals, improving your mindset. Watch what happens — your circle expands.
Whatever the size of your circle today, make this promise: Focus only on what you can change inside it. Don’t agonize over uncontrollable outcomes. Don’t replay rejections. Channel your limited time and energy into the things you can adjust — your preparation, your systems, your next step.
Do this daily, and two things happen:
1. Your influence grows.
2. You gain the deep satisfaction of steering your own life.
The next time disappointment arrives, ask: “Did I give it my best?” If yes — smile, close the email, and get back to work inside your circle.
That’s where your real power lives.
Start expanding it today.
Your bigger future is waiting.
