Theme of the Week: Control What You Can
“It is ridiculous not to escape from one's own vices, which is possible, while trying to escape the vices of others, which is impossible.” - Marcus Aurelius
Brother,
Marcus Aurelius reminds us that it makes no sense to focus on correcting the flaws of others when we have the ability to correct our own. You cannot control another person’s behaviour, decisions, or character. You can control your own.
During my football career, I became overly concerned with the actions and opinions of coaches and people in authority. Much of my energy was spent trying to convince them of my value - worrying about what they thought of me and what decisions they would make. I replayed conversations, analyzed their choices, and tried to anticipate outcomes.
Two months into signing a new two-year professional contract, I learned something that shifted everything. Although I was under contract and being paid, I had not been officially registered to compete. In professional football, registration is what makes you eligible to play in matches. Without it, you cannot take the field.
Through trusted sources, I was told I had allegedly been signed as a strategic move - not to contribute, but to prevent another club from acquiring me. I was contractually tied to the club but not positioned to play. It was a hard lesson in the bureaucracy and politics that exist within professional sport.
I felt frustrated and resentful. Yet no amount of anger could change their decision, their strategy, or their conduct. Eventually, I accepted a difficult truth: the only thing fully within my control was myself.
So I redirected my energy inward and forward. I eliminated alcohol. I added extra training sessions. I committed to disciplined nutrition. I re-enrolled in university. I strengthened my mental and spiritual habits through faith, meditation, and journaling.
At the same time, I took practical steps to resolve the situation. I sought advice, explored contractual options, and worked diligently to create a path forward. Over time, that effort led to my release from the contract.
When I could not control others, I controlled my standards. That season taught me that self-respect grows when your focus shifts inward. By concentrating on my effort, habits, and discipline, I became someone I could rely on regardless of circumstance.
This week, ask yourself:
Where am I spending energy trying to control what I cannot?
Stay strong, even when you are not. It’s okay, you are not alone.
With love always,
Michael Argyrides
