Lately I have been pondering a lot on the notion of responding versus reacting. Much of our time is spent reacting to situations around us, without even realizing that it may not always be in the best interest of our true self. Many times it can make the situation worse, which brokers the question – why would we want to make things worse?
Often we react unconsciously, without thinking. Many times depending on the situation our reaction can be rooted in fear, insecurities and other limiting beliefs. Responding on the other hand is based on a mindful conscious choice that serves your authentic self.
Mindfulness is a great tool that can give your unconscious mind the framework it needs to respond in the best way possible. You can exercise mindfulness by watching your thoughts when something occurs that would normally upset you. Pay close attention to how your mind reacts, and instead of allowing that thought or speech to express, pause. Just because you have an internal reaction does not mean you have to have an external one. Take pause and watch the reaction go away, and space open within yourself to respond how you consciously want to act.
