When You Can’t Control What’s Happening… Control This Instead

In this episode of Cat Unmuted, Cat reflects on a simple moment that turned into a much bigger realization.While helping a friend troubleshoot a Facebook issue, frustration quickly took over when things didn’t go as expected. That moment sparked a deeper reflection on how we respond to situations we can’t control.From pandemic experiences to everyday interactions, Cat explores how people often default to blame, stress, and reactivity—and how choosing a different response can completely shift the outcome.What This Episode Covers🔹 You Can’t Control Everything Platforms glitch Businesses shut down Plans fall apart Life throws curveballsAnd sometimes… that’s just the end of the story.🔹 But You CAN Control Your Reaction Your attitude Your next step Your tone with others Your ability to pause and pivotThe first emotional reaction is natural.What you do after that is where your power is.🔹 COVID as a MirrorCat shares how the pandemic revealed different ways people handled uncertainty: Panic vs. opportunity Blame vs. adaptation Consumption vs. creationInstead of spiraling, she chose to: Start writing her book Face her past Begin deeper inner workWhat felt like disruption became a doorway.🔹 A Small Moment That Said EverythingDuring a call with her internet provider, Cat asked the representative one simple question:“How are you doing?”His response?“No one has asked me that today.”A reminder that: People carry stress we don’t see Kindness stands out more than we think We choose what energy we bring into interactions🔹 Blame vs ResponsibilityIt’s easy to: Blame companies Blame systems Blame other peopleBut most of the time, the person in front of you isn’t the problem.And reacting with blame: Doesn’t solve anything Adds more stress Keeps you stuck🔹 The “Me First” MentalityFrom panic buying to unnecessary spending, Cat reflects on how fear can drive selfish decisions.But asks:What would happen if we trusted each other more?If we believed: Someone would help if we needed it There’s enough to go around We don’t have to fight for everything🔹 Choosing a Better ResponseInstead of reacting with: Anger Frustration BlameTry asking:👉 “What can I do now?”That shift alone can: Reduce stress Improve outcomes Change how others respond to you Get full access to Cat Unmuted at catlcarnell.substack.com/subscribe