It was theologian Reinhold Niebuhr who penned the famous plea: “God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; courage to change the things I can; and wisdom to know the difference.”
But this isn’t just a call for calm in chaotic times. Hidden in Niebuhr’s words is a deeper idea: locus of control (LOC)—the degree to which we believe we can shape the circumstances and events in our lives.
People with an internal locus of control believe their choices matter. They don’t just sit around waiting for life to happen—they step in, take action, and steer their own course. Every decision feels like a button they can push to change where things are headed.
On the flip side, those with an external locus of control often feel like passengers strapped into life’s rollercoaster. Destiny, luck (good or bad), and random forces seem to be calling the shots. The result is a passive, sometimes defeatist outlook—the kind that makes life feel like a rigged game. Or, as Homer Simpson once tried (and failed) to console his kids: “Kids, you tried your best and you failed miserably. The lesson is ‘never try’.”
Our research with the LCAST (Locus of Control & Attribution Style) shows that most people believe they have at least some say in how their lives unfold. Sure, not every twist or turn is theirs to command—but the majority reject the idea that they’re just puppets dangling on the strings of fate.
We also found that locus of control shifts with age. Older adults tend to lean more internal than younger ones—especially when it comes to health, love, and even rising above tough beginnings or genetics. They’re also far less likely to chalk things up to luck, destiny, or fate.
Why does this matter? Because locus of control shapes how people act. Sure, there are a few perks to having an external LOC—much like pessimism, it cushions the blow of failure (“Hey, not my fault—blame fate!”). But overall, those with an internal locus tend to thrive.
They take ownership of both wins and losses, chase goals instead of waiting for them to appear, and actively scout for opportunities. Mistakes aren’t disasters; they’re lessons. Self-improvement isn’t a buzzword; it’s a process.
In the workplace, that means employees with an internal LOC bring confidence, initiative, and accountability. They don’t just go along for the ride—they grab life by the horns and steer, instead of being bounced around by every bump in the road.
The problem with LOC is that it can be a rather abstract concept, which makes interviewing for it complex. Fear not—we’ve got some examples of questions you can ask:
- Think back to a major disappointment. What was your role in it? What would you have done differently?
- What, if anything, do you feel will hold you back from succeeding in this job or role?
- What are the benefits of failure, if any?
Interested in LCAST (Locus of Control & Attribution Style)? Contact us for a free trial—or explore any other assessment in our catalog.
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