In the movie Bridge of Spies, Rudolf Abel is arrested in the US for spying on behalf of the Soviet Union. Lawyer James B. Donovan is assigned as his legal counsel. Throughout the film, the lawyer is puzzled by his client’s stoic demeanor despite facing the death penalty in the US and uncertain prospects in the Soviet Union. When confronted with these dire possibilities, Rudolf Abel responds with a simple question: "Would it help?"

The most straightforward way to stop worrying about things beyond your control is to acknowledge that you cannot control them. Abel’s question offers valuable perspective. It becomes easier to direct your attention toward what you can influence. By establishing a system to make progress without fixating on outcomes, you position yourself for success when opportunity arises.

You have the freedom to choose what concerns you, what you prioritize, and what you constantly dwell on. Choose wisely.