Episode 172
The Crucial Space Between Action and Reaction
The exploration of the pause as a fundamental element of decision-making emerges as a pivotal theme in our discourse today. We delve into the profound insight articulated by Viktor Frankl, who postulated that between every stimulus and our subsequent response lies an invaluable space — a space that embodies our capacity for choice. Through rigorous reflection, we often find ourselves ensnared in habitual reactions, propelled by external stimuli such as tone of voice or unforeseen disruptions. This automaticity frequently leads to regrettable outcomes, as we act without the clarity afforded by deliberate contemplation. In this episode, we illuminate the transformative potential of a mere three-second pause, a brief interlude that can reinstate our agency and enable us to navigate our responses with intention and mindfulness. We invite our listeners to engage with reflective prompts that encourage personal introspection and awareness of their bodily sensations, ultimately fostering a deeper connection with the practice of pausing before responding. The challenge presented is deceptively simple yet profoundly impactful: to pause before making a decision, thereby embracing the power of choice that resides within that fleeting moment of stillness. Through this practice, we can indeed make a difference in our interactions and overall well-being.
Takeaways:
- The concept of a pause is profoundly significant, as it allows us to regain control over our responses.
- In moments of stress or surprise, we often react without contemplation, which can lead to regret.
- Taking even a brief pause, such as three seconds, empowers us to make more deliberate choices.
- We possess the inherent ability to choose our reactions; we simply must remember to exercise this power.
Transcript
Welcome to Make a Difference, a podcast about reflection and self improvement.
Speaker A:Each month the podcast will choose a series of quotes centered around a topic for reflection and then thoughts for discussion and implementation.
Speaker A:We all get stuck sometimes and these shows are designed to show us a way to get unstuck.
Speaker A:These shows are published Monday through Friday.
Speaker A:Join us daily to make a difference on how you view your personal outlook and hopefully improve it.
Speaker A:We will kick off the show with your host, Mark Quinn after this short break.
Speaker A:Welcome back to Make a Difference.
Speaker A:Today I want to explore something small but powerful.
Speaker A:A pause.
Speaker A:That brief space between what happens and what you choose next.
Speaker A:As Viktor Frankl wrote, between stimulus and response, there is a space.
Speaker A:And in that space is our power to choose.
Speaker A:Most of us move through our day just reacting almost automatically.
Speaker A:A tone of voice, an unexpected inconvenience, a stressful moment.
Speaker A:We jump straight from stimulus to action and later wonder why we said or did something we didn't intend.
Speaker A:But a pause, even three seconds, gives us back the steering wheel.
Speaker A:We always have a choice.
Speaker A:We just have to remember that we want to take that choice.
Speaker A:So today, let's consider one.
Speaker A:When was the last time you reacted quickly and wished you hadn't?
Speaker A:2.
Speaker A:What might change if you gave yourself a small pause before responding?
Speaker A:3.
Speaker A:Where do you feel that pause in your body?
Speaker A:The chest?
Speaker A:The breath?
Speaker A:The shoulders?
Speaker A:Softening.
Speaker A:Your challenge today is simple.
Speaker A:Before one decision, one response or one reaction pause, feel that space, make it intentional, and choose deliberately because that teeny pause can make a difference.
Speaker A:And I'll see you in our next episode.
Speaker A:If you like what you're hearing on the show, make the choice to subscribe today.
Speaker A:The show is gaining listeners all over the world and we're grateful for your support and we look forward to seeing you on our next episode.
