TikTok ban: What we can learn from sudden changes in our lives
Resilience is the key to thriving in uncertainty. Change is an inevitable part of life, and the TikTok ban in the US is a striking example of how suddenly our everyday lives can be shaken. Millions of people faced losing not only their entertainment, but also their platform for creativity, community and even their income. But behind this drastic change lies a valuable lesson: How do you deal with uncertainty? The answer lies within your Locus of Control – your inner control. Watch on Youtube or read our blog.
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What does Locus of Control mean?
The term “locus of control” describes the place of your control: Do you focus on what you can influence, or do you allow yourself to be controlled by external factors? People with a strong inner locus of control – i.e. the ability to focus their attention on what they have control over – deal with change more confidently. They realize that while they can’t control everything, they can control their thoughts, feelings, and actions.
If you would like to learn more about how you can use your inner strength, also read my blog post Courage and Freedom: The Path to Your Self-Determined Life – https://annielauer.com/mut.
The TikTok ban as a symbol of sudden changes
The decision to ban TikTok in the US may seem like a distant concern to many. But we all know similar situations: a job loss, the breakdown of a relationship or unexpected turns such as the global lockdown. Such moments remind us how fragile our dependencies on external factors are.
A client of mine experienced a similar crisis during the lockdown. Her family lost two hotels on Mallorca – their financial existence seemed destroyed. But instead of giving up, she asked herself the question: What can I control? Today, she has built a successful spiritual jewelry brand and inspires others with her story.
You can find out more about how letting go can be an opportunity for growth in my article Letting Go in 2024: Creating Space for New Things – https://annielauer.com/2024-loslassen.
5 steps to remain able to act in times of uncertainty
- Accept the uncontrollable
Some things are beyond our control – other people’s decisions, global events or technical algorithms. Learn to accept these factors and not waste your energy on them. - Focus on what you can influence
Focus on your own actions, your routines and your attitude. Ask yourself: What is within my power? - Create small, stable routines
Resilience comes from persistence. Whether it’s a morning meditation or an evening ritual, such habits give you stability. - Be open to new paths
When one possibility disappears, others often arise. The TikTok ban has led many creators to share their content on platforms like YouTube and Instagram. - Surround yourself with empowering people
A supportive community gives you support and new perspectives. Find people who inspire and motivate you.
If you want to know how to build routines and structures, you can find inspiration in my article 5 steps to your Vision 2025 – https://annielauer.com/deine-vision-fuer-2025.
My personal story
I personally experienced how suddenly everything can be different. When I immigrated to Canada, I lost my Instagram account with 4,200 followers. Years of work and trust were gone overnight. But instead of giving up, I started again. I focused on diversification – today I’m not only successful again on Instagram, but also active on many other platforms.
This experience showed me how important it is not to become dependent on one thing. It’s about remaining flexible and relying on what you can influence.
Your life, your control
The TikTok ban shows us how important it is to develop a stable inner core in an uncertain world. Your locus of control helps you stay calm and able to act, no matter how chaotic things get around you. Focus on your thoughts, feelings and actions – and let go of what you cannot change.
If you liked this article, also check out my blog post Gratitude in difficult moments – How it can change your life
There you will learn how you can make your everyday life positive with simple reflections. Write to me in the comments: Where in your life do you currently feel powerless, and what steps can you take to regain your control? I look forward to your thoughts!
Love from soul to soul,
your Annie
