Act not React

This is a phrase that I have used often and I am sure many of you who read the blogs must be wondering

• What do I mean by this statement?
• Why do I keep repeating the same phrase time and again?
• What is so important in this statement?

Well, when we are faced with certain situations our rational minds kicks-out and we move into what’s called the flight or fight mode. This is a basic survival instinct that all animals have and they can reset it automatically whereas we humans can’t reset it automatically.

When we are constantly feeling threatened or corned the flight or fight mode is always switched on and that leads to the release of a lot of stress hormones and creates havoc with our thinking. Keeping in mind that rational thinking has been replaced with irrational thinking we go into a state of panic and chaos.

In a state like this, it is normal to react to situations rather than act. There is a fine line between acting and reacting to a particular situation.

What is the difference between Act and React?

Acting is what makes one feel happy and reacting is what makes one feel uncomfortable or miserable. When we act on something we perform the same with a conscious choice whereas when we react we are being highly influenced with external stimulus and getting carried away with what we perceive to be true. So in other words others can influence our thinking with their words and nudges.

It’s a natural human tendency to get carried away with the problem or situation and bank on our close circle of well-wishers to guide us and help us through it. Our belief that we are cornered and need help becomes so strong that we believe anything that has been told to us. When our rational mind is shut we start doing things thinking it is right.

These irrational acts of us is a clear sign of reacting to situations. Be it taking impromptu decisions on important matters, sudden outbursts of anger. When the rational mind shuts we just get caught in the whirlwind of trying to reason and our reactions keep happening to every situation that we face.

When this is not settled we become like live wires ready to snap and snarl at every little wrong movement or something not going as per our liking. So now none of us are interested to here someone drone on and on about the same thing.

How can we just act and not react?

• First and foremost step away from the situation and take time to go through the whole situation.
• Do not get influenced by what others have to say trust your instincts and perceptions and revisit your belief system.
• If possible re-think by changing your perception and belief system and things may seem a lot different.
• Try to be empathetic towards the other person or people who are involved in this situation.
• Work out the pros and cons of the situation and see where you stand and what is it that you wish for.
• In every situation, it’s good to have a look at the bigger picture and take decisions as it would become easier for you.
• Work on regular practice of pranayama and at the time of stress or anger try some calming breathing exercises to keep your mind in control.
• Keep some calming mantras in hand and use them if need be to help you settle your nerves or calm you down.
• Take time to understand and identify your triggers and start working on those issues.
• Avoid suppressing your emotions but at the same time don’t take any major decisions with your emotions going haywire.
• Work on ways where you can start having a delayed reaction this way your reactions start slowing down.
• Talk when only necessary and avoid unwanted squabble and arguments.
• Put space between you and the situation and be patient trying to focus on the situation and not the ego.
• Define boundaries and be assertive with your thoughts and words.

Allow yourself to explore possibilities and options wherein you can only act and not react to situations. Don’t fret in the past or focus on the point of not letting go. Through the various lessons let yourself work on being assertive and also move towards being more comfortable with acting on situations and not reacting to them.

Tune into understanding and know how you feel that would help you come to the point of overlooking certain facts and even if things are not as per your wish you will be in control to act the same then reacting to them.

Reactions are easy to have but acts are very difficult as that needs a lot more will and want of mindfulness.

Practice makes one perfect so allow yourself to be mindful and be in the now.

🌺Palash 🌺
In Gratitude to Divine
Spiritual Healer
Samskara Healing
RIDICULOUS- ENGAGE- ENHANCE- PLETHORA-FLOCK- FULL