HOW TO BE RATIONAL IN REACTIONS TO IRRITABLE ACTIONS

[ZIKPHYSICS]

Do you ever find that you respond to a situation in a reactive way? Do
you ever lose your patience, avoid confrontation, or lack self-
discipline? I think most of us do at one time or another.

The key is to choose wisely how we use the space between the stimulus
and response.

For example, let's say that a coworker has been saying unkind things
about you to other people you work with. That is the stimulus. What
you choose to do with that stimulus is the response.

Reactive people allow outside influences (moods, feelings, and
circumstances) to control their responses.

Proactive people pause to allow themselves the freedom to choose their
response based on principles and desired results. Their freedom to
choose expands as they wisely use the space between the stimulus and
response.

Here is an exercise that will assist you in becoming a proactive
person rather than a reactive person.

1. Think of a situation where you consistently respond in a reactive
way (e.g. losing your patience, avoiding confrontation, speaking
without thinking).

2. What is a better, more effective way to respond?

3. What would be the positive consequences of responding in this new
way? (Who would be affected? What would be the impact?)

4. What is your commitment level to respond in this new way the next
time you are in this situation? (Circle the number that corresponds to
your commitment level.)