This quote implies that our emotional and psychological reactions are not primarily determined by the events themselves, but by how we perceive and interpret them. In other words, it’s not the situations we face that upset us, but our thoughts and attitudes towards these situations.

For instance, if we lose our job, it’s not the job loss itself that disturbs us, but our thoughts about it. We might fear the future, worry about financial security, or feel a blow to our self-esteem. Yet, another person might see the same situation as an opportunity for a fresh start or to pursue a long-desired career change.

This idea is closely related to the concept of cognitive reframing in psychology, which is a therapeutic technique that helps people to change their negative or unhelpful thought patterns into more positive ones. By adjusting our thoughts and perspectives, we can change our emotional responses and behavior.

In today’s world, this idea is particularly relevant. We are constantly bombarded with news and information, some of which can be quite distressing. However, by controlling our thoughts about these events, we can mitigate their impact on our emotional well-being.

In personal development, this concept can be applied in various ways. It can help us to become more resilient, as we learn to see challenges as opportunities for growth rather than threats. It can also help us to manage stress and anxiety more effectively, by teaching us to challenge our negative thoughts and assumptions.

In essence, the quote emphasizes the power of our minds in shaping our experiences and emotions. By mastering our thoughts, we can significantly improve our emotional well-being and overall quality of life.