Reacting Vs Responding

Quote of the day...

“Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.”

Harriet Tubman

What is a Reaction?

A reaction is an immediate and rapid response to a stimulus. It does not necessitate an assessment of the action or its consequences prior to its execution. Instead, it operates in unfiltered autopilot mode, propelled solely by emotions. A reaction is acceptable in certain circumstances but potentially detrimental in others.

Reactions also include defence mechanisms of the body that have been established due to past experiences.

What is a Response?

A response is preceded by concrete thinking and a thorough evaluation of the stimulus and the impact of the action. The mind remains tranquil during a response, facilitating its comprehension of the incoming stimulus. The response is formulated subsequent to consultation of both the conscious and unconscious minds. It entails contemplating the potential ramifications of the response on both the immediate surroundings and human beings.

Response is not an innate behavior; rather, it must be cultivated. When an individual possesses self-awareness, self-regulation, mindfulness, empathy, and strong social skills, responses become second nature.

P.L.A.C.E Skill

Since reactions are inbuilt, they come easier than responses. We are all prone to reacting rather than responding frequently, given that responses require intentional initiation. Although acquired, responses contribute to improved decision-making. As a result, a response is consistently preferable so that one can generate a positive response through their actions and thereby make more informed decisions.

A fundamental prerequisite for providing a response is to exercise mindfulness regarding the reply. The application of this mindfulness is possible via the P.L.A.C.E. skill.

Pause

Take a step back and evaluate the trigger or situation.

Label the emotion

Understand the emotion you are feeling as a result of the trigger. Anger, irritation, frustration, irritability, anxiety, or disappointment could all be present.

Ask why

Motivate yourself to determine the source of your inciting feelings. Why does the circumstance or individual elicit that particular emotion within you? This action promotes self-awareness.

Choose a mindful response

Consider the manner in which you intend to react to the situation. Consider the advantages and disadvantages of the response that you intend to select. If it has a negative impact on you or anyone else, attempt to generate an alternative response. Should it elicit a favorable reaction, implement it.

Empower yourself

Efforts should be made to apply the process of mindfulness in every situation involving a choice between reacting and responding.

Regularly applying the P.L.A.C.E. skill will assist you in maintaining a positive outlook on life.

Reacting vs Responding Example

Example: A child breaks something valuable in the house while playing.

Reaction: The parent scolds the child immediately, which ends up frightening and emotionally hurting the child.

Response: Calmly explaining the value of the item and the consequence of his/her actions.

If the situation is dealt with a response, the child will understand the consequence and consciously avoid similar actions thereon. Rather than frightening the child with anger and causing confusion in his/her mind.