[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":-1},["ShallowReactive",2],{"$fE9ME0yI5fOlo2ruEe8BSkO_B6eWveaiUtIvDkGAxF1A":3,"$f56n9GOScOK-b8D1eNgh_gY8JwBY-hLOfeSRPC2CcX2Q":12},{"author":4,"tags":11},{"author_id":5,"author_name":6,"author_name_first_letter":7,"article_count":8,"bio":9,"short_bio":9,"slug":10,"image_url":9},40434,"Donald Robertson","D",1,null,"donald-robertson",[],{"quotes":13,"pagination":38},[14],{"id":15,"quote_text":16,"author_id":5,"source_id":17,"has_image":18,"author":19,"source":20,"quote_tag":21,"commentary":37},217372,"as people very often place intrinsic value on things outside of their direct control, and doing so undoubtedly contributes to human suffering in many ways.",2,false,{"id":5,"author_name":6,"slug":10,"author_name_first_letter":7,"article_count":8,"image_url":9},{},[22,27,32],{"id":23,"tag":24},1374557,{"id":25,"tag_name":26},18,"happiness",{"id":28,"tag":29},1374558,{"id":30,"tag_name":31},338,"stoic",{"id":33,"tag":34},1374569,{"id":35,"tag_name":36},3151,"virtue","**The Backstory**\n\nDonald Robertson, a Scottish Stoic and philosopher, likely penned this passage in his book \"The Philosophy of Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy\" (2010). As he navigated the complexities of human nature, Robertson was aware that people often struggle with circumstances beyond their control. His writing reflects the wisdom gained from studying the ancient Stoics, such as Epictetus and Seneca.\n\n**The Hidden Insight**\n\nAt first glance, this quote appears to be a straightforward critique of external validation. However, it reveals a more profound understanding: people's tendency to place intrinsic value on uncontrollable aspects of life perpetuates suffering by creating an illusion of control. By focusing on what can't be changed, individuals become trapped in a never-ending cycle of anxiety and discontent.\n\n**How to Use This**\n\nTo apply this insight, modern professionals and creatives should recognize the futility of trying to control external events or circumstances that are outside their direct influence. Instead, they should focus on cultivating intrinsic motivation, valuing effort and progress over outcomes, and developing a growth mindset that acknowledges and accepts the uncontrollable nature of life.",{"currentPage":8,"totalPages":8,"totalItems":8,"itemsPerPage":39},10]