Tap Into the Serenity Prayer
Written by the American theologian Reinhold Niebuhr, the Serenity Prayer is more relevant than ever. Whether you’re familiar with it or hearing it for the first time, its simplicity and depth have the ability to bring comfort and clarity, especially during times of uncertainty or stress:
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.
The Serenity Prayer is widely attributed to Reinhold Niebuhr, with evidence suggesting it was in use by the early 1930s. The earliest written reference dates to 1932 in a diary entry by Winnifred Crane Wygal, a student of Niebuhr, who credited him with the words. The prayer gained prominence during World War II, offering solace amidst widespread turmoil. It was adopted by Alcoholics Anonymous, and that is probably its most widespread association.
The Serenity Prayer echoes themes found in several philosophical traditions, especially Stoicism and Buddhism. In fact, the recent book by Mel Robbins, The Let Them Theory, is her take on these principles. She offers many scenarios around “Let Them” and the most important part is “Let me” and those are in line respectively with accepting what you cannot change and doing what you can to change.
Here’s how you can apply the Serenity Prayer to your daily life.
1. Accept What You Cannot Change
We live in a world where a lot of situations are outside of our control. Whether it’s the weather, other people’s actions, or unforeseen events, there are many factors we simply cannot change. We must accept what happens. Acceptance does not mean resignation; rather, it allows us to redirect our energy toward things we can influence.
2. Find the Courage to Change What You Can
This part of the Serenity Prayer encourages us to make difficult decisions, take bold steps, and face our fears. Whether it’s time to change your job or career, begin or end a relationship, or adopt healthier habits, taking action requires courage. It’s not always easy—but it’s worth it. Research in positive psychology shows that taking action, even when it’s scary, helps you feel more in control of your life. The more you step up and make changes where you can, the more empowered and fulfilled you will feel.
Use your valuable energy and resources to change the things within your control. I know it’s difficult to make changes. I have made some big changes. One of my biggest, life-changing decisions was to stop drinking every night. It was really hard for me. Drinking was part of my life and it was a habit I could not break until the day I finally said, “I can’t do this anymore.” I have seen a steep increase in my happiness, health, and ability to pursue goals. I feel better and I have a clear head. It is not a coincidence that I changed careers and became an entrepreneur soon after I stopped drinking.
3. Develop Wisdom to Know the Difference
Knowing when to act and when to let go requires wisdom. Figuring out what you can and cannot control is something that comes with time, experience, and self-reflection. We all learn from past choices, and the more we pay attention, the easier it gets to make better decisions. Experts say that when you focus on what’s actually in your power, you not only make smarter choices but also you also feel less stressed. It’s a skill worth building—one that brings more clarity and peace into your life.
There is a powerful truth at the heart of the Serenity Prayer. You have the strength to change what matters most in your life. It’s not easy, and it’s not comfortable, but real growth comes from stepping up and taking action where you can. What’s one thing you can change today that will bring you closer to the life you want? Then take that first step.
