By Natasha Kwachka
Have you ever pondered why we, as people, respond or react to certain scenarios in the way that we do? What compels one to respond positively or negatively? What is the driving force behind a meltdown or calmly working your way through a tough situation? I believe we all have so many reasons that cause us to respond or react to different stresses and pressures. How do we respond versus react? Where does the strength come from to slow down and think through a response before you react in a poor manner?
More than I would like to admit, I can think of a time or two that I personally had a full on meltdown at the world around me. Lashing out at the driver in front of me for pumping the breaks last minute. Becoming frustrated as my kids take their time getting into the car knowing that we are already 30 minutes late. These are some of the smaller frustrations. It was my reactions to common day-to-day life events that caused me to take a look inward.
Over the past two years I have spent some time focusing on why I react poorly and why don’t I change that behavior? Change is tough, it takes practice and dedication. Programming your brain can feel like your lost in a maze, it is and always will be a work in progress. We as people will likely never fully master this. We all have breaking points that bring out the worst. What we can master though is our due diligence to slow down and think. In doing so, I have witnessed a change in how I interact with my colleagues and my family. Slowing down, looking inward, has made this thing called life much easier. My best thoughts are put forth and the negative thoughts are laid to rest. Most of the time, let’s be honest, this is truly a work in progress. Reacting is triggered from our subconscious mind, therefore not allowing you time to process, the reaction becomes instinctual. Responding allows you to take control of the next step. Take a moment, think through the pros and cons and thoughtfully plan your response, there is power in your words.
Today I encourage you to stop collect your thoughts, process your feelings before any response is given. Get up and walk the hall at work after finding out you have re-do that report you recreated 5 different times this week alone. Ask yourself what your desired outcome would be to anything coming your way? Empower and challenge yourself to connect with your higher purpose in all you do. Slow down and discover the power in your response. Let this be a challenge to find the greatness you have within and to give the world around you the best you. That you that brings to the table those amazing ideas, thoughts and strategic responses.
