Skip to content

National I Am In Control Day inspires people to pause and evaluate how much control they have over their lives. It’s a day to acknowledge that life can feel chaotic, but we still can manage certain aspects of it.

This day nudges individuals to focus on what they can change, whether it’s organizing their schedules, improving their health, or setting personal goals. The idea is to encourage confidence, self-reliance, and a sense of accomplishment by taking charge of decisions and actions that shape our daily experiences.

This observance is about reclaiming personal agency. It highlights that even when external factors are beyond our influence, we can still steer our own ships.

Taking control doesn’t always mean grand gestures—it can be as simple as prioritizing tasks, clearing out mental or physical clutter, or finding peace in small, manageable actions.

How to Celebrate National I Am In Control Day

Get Organized and Declutter

A perfect way to start celebrating National I Am In Control Day is to declutter. Clear out that junk drawer or sort through the old papers piling up on your desk.

You’ll be amazed at how refreshing a tidy space can feel! By getting rid of unused or unnecessary items, you’ll feel lighter and ready to tackle your next challenge.

Set Achievable Goals

Focus on what you want to accomplish. Choose a few small, manageable goals and write them down. Don’t overwhelm yourself with big projects.

Instead, pick things you can achieve within a day or week. Completing these goals will give you a nice sense of satisfaction and confidence.

Create a Simple Plan

After setting your goals, make a simple plan. Break down tasks into easy steps and spread them across the week.

Small steps are easier to manage and help you stay in control. Plus, it’s much more fun checking off little tasks throughout the day!

Unplug for a While

Put away your phone, close those social media tabs, and spend some time disconnected. Give yourself an hour or two to focus on what matters most to you.

Whether it’s reading a book, going for a walk, or enjoying a quiet cup of coffee, being present is a great way to regain control of your time.

Treat Yourself to Self-Care

Celebrate this day by treating yourself with some well-deserved self-care. Take a relaxing bath, meditate, or go for a walk in nature. Doing something that nourishes your body or mind is a wonderful way to remind yourself that you’re in charge of your own well-being.

History of National I Am In Control Day

National I Am In Control Day began after an event in 1981 involving President Ronald Reagan. On that day, there was an assassination attempt, and he was shot.

Following the incident, Secretary of State Alexander Haig famously declared, “I am in control here,” during a press briefing. His words, meant to reassure the public, sparked inspiration for this unique day.

In the years following, people saw Haig’s statement as a symbol of personal empowerment. The idea grew into a day dedicated to encouraging individuals to take control of their own lives. It emphasizes making decisions and taking charge, no matter the challenges around you.

Although it wasn’t officially recognized for several years, the sentiment behind the day stuck. People use it as a reminder to manage their own paths and responsibilities. It’s now a day that focuses on self-confidence and the power of personal choice.

The day encourages everyone to reflect on their daily lives. It’s about realizing that you have control over small actions that can lead to bigger changes.

National I Am In Control Day reminds us all that even in uncertainty, we can still navigate our own course.

See what else is happening…

There’s always more going on every month at Days Of The Year. Here are our favorites this month!

Also on ...

View all holidays

Pretzel Sunday

Pretzels, with their salty and twisty goodness, are a delicious way to enjoy a snack that can be delightfully basic or creatively complex.

National Neighbor Day

Being a good neighbor isn't just about borrowing sugar, it's about building community. Small acts of kindness can bring us closer and make us happier.

View all holidays

We think you may also like...

World Tuberculosis Day

Honoring the relentless human spirit in the face of a formidable adversary, a disease that has shaped history and medical progress.

-

Calendar

Join the community!

Password requirements

  • At least one capital letter
  • At least one lowercase letter
  • At least one number
  • 8 or more characters

Welcome back!

Log in to get personalized recommendations, follow events and topics you love, and never miss a day again!