There are two ways that we can explain the situation that we are in. The situation can be anything from not being promoted at work to not making progress on a goal to not being able to find a solution to a problem.

One way is to explain it in terms of an external locus of control, where you think the situation would be different only if something outside of you changes. Think about all the situations that you are explaining in this manner.

This is the victim mentality. Where we see ourselves as the victim that needs to be rescued by someone outside of us.

The other way is to explain it in terms of an internal locus of control, where you think the situation can be influenced by you and the actions you can take. By looking at it this way, you determine what actions you can possibly take and then you go and do it.

This keeps the reins in your hands, rather than waiting for someone to come and rescue you.

The situation that you're in can be looked at in either of the ways. And everyone of us takes the first approach to some and the latter approach to other situations, all at the same time.

Ask yourself when you need to change from the former to the latter approach.