“Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response.” – Viktor Frankl, Man’s Search for Meaning
In that space before we respond we need to take an inventory of our emotions. Acknowledge what they are and take a moment to consider how they will affect our response.
We don’t need to respond immediately. Sometimes, many times, it’s better not to respond immediately.
It’s often better to process how what the other person has said makes you feel. How they made you feel, will be the pivotal thing that colors your response.
Anger, resentment, jealousy will make you do and say things you may not do or say normally. Allowing them to determine your response can destroy the path forward in the conversation.
This idea of using the space to respond appropriately is something I need to work on.
I am too eager to respond especially if someone has made me angry, jealous, or resentful.
I want them to know I’m right, even when I know I’m not.
I need to work on getting it right rather than being right.
Sometimes I feel anger, jealousy, or resentment because I know deep down they are right, and I don’t want to admit it.
“Am I hear to learn something or to prove something?“ – Holstee, Reflections newsletter
Get it right rather than be right.
Educational Stoic 