“The only thing we give is information, and what you choose to do with the information is up to you. I can not control you.”
This statement is not only confusing but also concerning to me, particularly when people are beginning their learning journey in this area and believe that ‘literally.’
We are all motivated by something outside of us. Choice theory informs us that we can choose to ignore the phone from ringing or the deadlines that are due.
Choice theory also informs us that we can choose to be part of a professional organisation, knowing the expectations, knowing the objectives, knowing the commitment, knowing the criteria and knowing that if we respect these we will achieve positive outcomes for others.
There are controlling factors everywhere in life, and particularly in work. Some provide us with safety and security, others provide us with happiness and wellbeing. From an alternative perspective these controlling factors can be seen as 'information shared’ to ensure the survival of humanity.
Therefore, there are many aspect of our lives where control is inevitable, in particular if we choose to be part of a positively functioning organisation or positively functioning society. What is in realm of our control is how we choose to respond to the requirements of the organisation and wider society.
Knowing and understanding this, through Choice Theory, puts us in a place where we are able to function professionally and find positivity in our work.