"変更可能なものを変え、不変のものを受け入れ、受け入れられないものから離れる"

This quote is all about how to handle the twists and turns life throws at us. Sometimes, things can be changed with effort and action. Other times, we must come to terms with the fact that some aspects are beyond our control. And if we find ourselves in a situation that we simply cannot tolerate, we have the agency to step away. It's about using our energy wisely—changing what we can, accepting what we can't, and walking away from what’s intolerable.

Think back to when you first heard this kind of advice. Maybe it was from a wise relative or a mentor. This quote's wisdom is timeless and can apply to countless situations. It encourages a balanced approach to life—taking action when possible, practicing acceptance when necessary, and knowing when it’s time to move on.

Let's dive into a real-life example. Picture a job that just isn't working out. You might be able to 'change the changeable' by talking to your boss about your workload or seeking new opportunities within the company. Sometimes, though, you hit a wall—maybe the company culture is toxic or the job just isn’t a good fit for your skills. That's when 'accept the unchangeable' comes into play. There are some aspects of a job that are fixed, and you need to decide if you can live with them. But if the situation becomes unbearable—if you dread going to work every day or it's affecting your health—then it's time to 'remove yourself from the unacceptable.' There’s no shame in walking away from something that’s hurting you.

So how can you apply this wisdom in your own life? Start by identifying what’s within your control. If something’s bothering you, ask yourself: Can I change this? If the answer is yes, make a plan and take action. If not, it’s time to practice acceptance. This isn’t about giving up—it’s about recognizing reality and saving your energy for things you can impact. And if you’re stuck in a situation that’s truly intolerable, muster the courage to leave. Life’s too short to stay in places that make you miserable.

Imagine your friend Sarah tells you she's in a relationship that’s making her unhappy. She’s tried talking to her partner and working through issues, but things aren’t improving. You might remind her of this quote. She’s already tried to change the changeable, so what’s next? If the core issues can’t be resolved, she might need to accept that this is who her partner is. But if the relationship is fundamentally damaging her well-being, she should consider removing herself from the unacceptable. It’s a tough decision, but sometimes stepping away is the healthiest choice.

This approach isn’t just about big life decisions, either. Think about small, everyday frustrations. Stuck in traffic? You might not be able to change the situation, so practice acceptance—or, if it’s a regular stressor, maybe you can remove yourself from the unacceptable by finding a new route or leaving at a different time.

By remembering this quote, you can navigate life’s challenges with a clearer mind and a lighter heart. Change what you can, accept what you can’t, and know when to walk away. It’s simple, but it’s powerful advice that can make a world of difference.