You can choose how to react
Well-being 🌿 | Constructive attitude 🏗️ | #Reactions #Mindfulness #Change
TL;DR
We have control over how we react to events, even if we can't control the events themselves.
Learning to change our core reactions is possible with the right mindset and approach.
By acknowledging our power, practising mindfulness, challenging automatic reactions, seeking support, and celebrating progress, we can shape positive change in our lives.
Seed
Although we can’t control things that happen to us and happen around us, we can control, to a certain extent, how we react to those events. We can also decide on which perspective we will choose to take and which thoughts we will feed.
Learning to change our core reactions takes training and commitment, but it is possible with the right mindset and approach. I've been curious about this topic for a long time, wondering which parts of our behaviours are innate and which are acquired. Can we really change something that seems inherent?
While I still don't have a definitive answer, I've discovered that we can, to some extent, learn new behaviours and alter the way we respond to things. This realisation has been empowering and has given me hope.
It's important to remember that we don't have to complicate this question further. The value lies in the fact that change is possible. By recognising that we have the ability to choose our reactions, we open ourselves up to growth and transformation.
Here are a few key points to consider:
Acknowledge your power: Understand that you have control over how you react to situations. Even if you can't control what happens, you can control your perspective and attitude.
Practice mindfulness: Cultivate awareness of your thoughts and emotions. Take a step back and observe them without judgment. This practice allows you to pause before reacting impulsively.
Challenge your automatic reactions: When faced with a triggering event, consciously choose a different response. It may feel uncomfortable at first, but over time, you can rewire your brain to form new, healthier habits.
Seek support: Surround yourself with positive influences and seek guidance from trusted friends, family, or professionals. They can offer perspective and help you navigate challenging situations.
Celebrate progress: Recognise and celebrate the small victories along your journey of change. Each step forward is a testament to your growth and resilience.
Remember, you have the power to shape your reactions. Embrace the opportunity to grow, learn, and create positive change in your life.
Example
Imagine you're stuck in heavy traffic on your way to an important meeting. You can't control the traffic, but you can control how you react. Instead of getting frustrated and stressed, you take a deep breath, play your favourite music, and use the extra time to mentally prepare for the meeting. By choosing a positive perspective and managing your reactions, you transform a potentially negative situation into an opportunity for personal growth and productivity.
Bonus
While looking for information about the share between acquired and innate traits in individuals, I came across the two following videos by Richard Dawkins. Although it doesn’t seem directly related to the topic, it reveals some logic and mechanisms that can help its comprehension.
Life is such a complex machinery. I really admire its inherent mix of randomness and sophistication.