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No Knee-Jerk Reactions

Psychologists divide our interactions into two broad categories: responses and reactions. A response is a deliberate, well thought-out action. A reaction is knee-jerk and lacking in thought and insight. A reaction generates regrets, not solutions. Hurling insults at an offending employee is knee-jerk. Reminding him that you expect professional behavior at all times is a response.

A reaction reinforces the status quo. A response is a change agent and provides insight.

“The best vision is insight,” said magazine publisher and entrepreneur Malcolm Forbes.

So slow down, take a deep breath and respond, not react.