Gulf Of A Difference
‘Do not learn how to react. Learn how to respond.’ – Buddha
There might not be much of a difference between the words ‘React’ and ‘Respond’. But, when it comes to putting those words into practice, there is a gulf of a difference.
When we react to a situation or to a person, our emotions play the pivotal role and logic becomes the supporting actor. During our ‘reaction’, we let our emotions and sentiments drive us forward without any reasoning or logic without us being aware. Ultimately, we lose control on ourselves. Reacting is more of sporadic in nature.
Responding is more thoughtful. When we respond to the same situation or person, it is predominantly guided by logic and reasoning. There is very less emotion involved when responding. Though responding is considered more passive in nature, but contrary to the popular belief, it is more active since it can change the direction of any interaction. Learning to respond instead of reacting is one of the Zen habits.
Reacting is mostly a product of insecurities and fear, hence, it’s not considered to be rational and appropriate way to act. Responding is taking the situation into consideration, and being able to decide the best course of action based on certain values such as compassion, cooperation etc. To inculcate the habit of responding, one needs to maintain a calm and composed mind. In other words, mindfulness plays more than an important role to learn how to respond rather than reacting.
Mindfulness is nothing but keeping a watch on ourselves when something happens that usually trigger us or upset us, creating an emotional reaction. It’s not necessary to act immediately just because we had an internal reaction. It’s not easy but it isn’t impossible either. It comes with practice and self-analysis. We need to let ourselves cool down before we act, only then we will be able to respond. Sometimes it may take few seconds, sometimes, longer. At times, we may need to remove ourselves politely from the situation, take our own time to calm before responding. There would also come situations where we would mess up for the first time, but gradually, in due course of time, we will learn to be mindful and respond in the manner that is required. Reactions mostly end up in regrets and responses otherwise. If we are able to respond rather than react, it would be one of the greatest tools we can ever have!
