But is it what it is?

I’ve never cared much for the phrase “it is what it is.”

I’m sure I’ve said it a few times, and heard it many more. But it never sat well with me. It smacks of resignation, reluctance, and self-suffering. Maybe even a little victimhood.

We proclaim “it is what it is” when something is not quite as we’d like it, and we know we have no choice but to muddle on and make do. It signals “Woe is me. This sucks.”

And it’s often true. Some things are just what they are. You cannot easily change them, and, yes, they suck.

But you can change your attitude towards those things. Next time something doesn’t pan out as you hoped, try shifting your reaction from “it is what it is” to something more uplifting and empowering. Try this instead:

“OK, good… It will be what I make it.”

Now you’re back in control. You’ve ditched the resignation and despair, and taken your seat at the steering wheel of positive change. No need to wallow in self-pity, it’s now up to you to make the most of the situation.

Just another small reframing technique to help you discover the Future-Ready Mindset you need to make the most of whatever life throws at you next.