The Desire to Control
According to Swiss psychologist Ellen Miller, everyone has experienced some degree of neglect, disappointment, unkindness, or pain as a child. In our adult lives, we have two choices: pull it up to our conscious awareness, or repress it. Most people choose repression, because the process of becoming aware of the associated “bad” feelings is upsetting.
Signs You’re a Super Controller
Do any of these statements ring a bell?
- You’re greatly bothered when people seem to get away with not doing a job right.
- You go to great lengths to force co-workers or subordinates to maintain the highest standards at all times.
- New freedoms in the workplace irritate you.
- You tend to wither, tune out, or get angry when people complain about what’s wrong.
- Disorder of any sort bothers you immensely.
- You often find yourself impatient and easily angered.
- You want things your way.
- People tell you you’re too much of a perfectionist.
- You think it’s right for people to learn lessons the hard way.

Fix It!
How to Distance Yourself from Negativity
Bibliotherapy
A daily regimen of inspirational quotes, scriptures, poems, or self-help books specific to your needs provide guidance and positivity.
Self-assessment
Find assessments online, like this one from TalentSmart, or invest in a professional evaluation. Take stock of your interests, values, personality traits, and skills. The process of getting in touch with who you really are enhances employability, boosts confidence, and leads to a higher quality of life.
Talk
Share your feelings with your partner, a family member, trusted friend, or HR representative at work. Just speaking up is therapeutic, but you might also find that it’s easier to brainstorm solutions with someone else.
Write
When you can’t talk, write in a journal, or blog (but don’t trash-talk anyone publicly!).
Seek a Professional
Get help from a professional counselor.
In addition, you can revitalize your career and self-confidence by negotiating new hours (and flexibility), building a relationship with a mentor, becoming a member of a strategic support group, or asking for more supervision from someone you admire. Do what it takes to enjoy your work again!