WEEKLY WISDOM - RESPOND OR REACT

Respond: to satisfy; to answer and to have a positive or favorable reaction.

Respond or React: these couple of words are very intriguing. These words become some of the most thought-provoking and relevant words depending on the situation and circumstance in which you find yourself. Let's put a bit more definition around these words. To react is to act in a particular way as a direct result of something else. To respond means satisfying, answering, and having a favorable reaction.

Now that we have defined these words, let's put them in context regarding situations or circumstances. There are situations that we will come face to face with and, most of the time, unexpectedly. In these situations, will we either react or respond to them?

For instance, if you receive unexpected feedback at work or a loved one shares distressing news, these situations call for a response, not a reaction. A thoughtful and empathetic response can lead to a more positive outcome in these instances.

Here's an example that will bring this more to light. My wife and I had just moved into our new home and had communication challenges. One morning, it heated up to what we call an escalated discussion. It was all about me thinking that I was communicating events that we would do with friends and appointments we made. Her answers to me seem condescending as she would say, "Did you put that on the calendar or send me an invite?". I took her response way left and blew up at her and said something to the effect of, "Just forget it; you are always negative when it comes to anything I try to set up for us!" To be honest, I was all in my feelings and just reacted at the moment. I'm unsure precisely what I said, but it was not thoughtful or life-giving. Fortunately for both of us, we stayed in the conversation until we resolved our issue and apologized.

If I had responded instead of reacted, I would have been more thoughtful with my words and sought to understand her perspective. I could have taken a time out and counted to ten before I moved forward with understanding. This action would have resolved our issues much faster, and she wouldn't have felt attacked. The relief and satisfaction from resolving issues through thoughtful responses are truly rewarding and reassuring.

One way to cultivate this habit is to practice mindfulness. When you find yourself in a challenging situation, take a moment to pause and consider your response. This practice can help you avoid knee-jerk reactions and respond more thoughtfully. Applying this approach to our business and professional relationships would positively impact our leadership effectiveness and progress and lessen our stress and anxiety. The next time you face a challenging situation or difficult conversation or find yourself in a highly inflamed circumstance, remember to respond instead of reacting. Read these scriptures for even more direction- Colossians 4:6 and James 1:19. Do you tend to react or respond?

Exercise Your Power this week-

1.      Recall a situation where you reacted but outcomes would have been better if you

responded.

2.      List ways you can ensure to respond to pressure situations instead of reacting, so you

come become more consistent. 

3.       Read the book of James this week for practical application on right living.