Are You A Control Freak?

Always wanting things to be perfect and thinking you know better than others can lead to compulsive behaviour that can affect your health and relationships

- Roxanne Mooneys

YOU like the cupboards packed just so and get upset or irritated when the people you live with don’t do it that way. You think your child would do better in tests if she studied the way you told her to.

When others are upset, sad or angry, you’re quick to tell them what to do to make it better. You have the answer or solution to every problem and believe it’s your duty to share it with those you think will benefit from it.

Sound familiar? If you recognise yourself in these examples, you might just be a control freak. And if that’s the case, it’s time to consider taking a chill pill – because not only does it negatively affect your nearest and dearest, it can also elevate your stress levels.

Control freaks often get involved in situations that are none of their concern, or police other people’s actions and feelings, absolutely convinced they can shape the world for the better or in a way that suits them.

People who like to be in control usually believes they’re helping those around them with their unsolicited advice, when in fact they’re often a source of irritation, frustration or hurt.

It can stem from a fear that life might fall apart if things aren’t just so, says Marlize Heppell, a clinical psychologist from Klerksdorp.

Of course, you need to manage your life to some extent and take responsibility for your actions, and sometimes for those of others, she adds. A parent, for example, must ensure their children remember to do their homework and pack their schoolbooks.