Do you ever catch yourself worrying about what might happen next or replaying an awkward conversation for the 10th time? You’re not alone. But you’re also not helping yourself.

As a therapist for nearly 25 years and the author of “13 Things Mentally Strong People Don’t Do,” I’ve noticed one consistent habit that sets mentally strong people apart: They never waste energy on things they can’t control.

Choosing to worry only about things you can control sounds simple on the surface. Actually committing to it is tough.

But with a few practical shifts, you can start directing your mental energy into what really matters, feel more effective, and boost your mental strength.

Whether you’re refreshing your inbox repeatedly as you wait for an important message or fixating on what someone else might do next, worrying about things you can’t control is a trap. It feels productive, but it backfires.