When things go wrong, we’re often told to “look on the bright side” or “find the silver lining.”
While optimism has its place, it’s not always the most helpful response in the immediate moment.
In some moments, focusing on what we can control is more helpful than trying to stay positive.
Neuroscience shows that when we feel out of control, our brain’s threat system activates.
The amygdala takes over, flooding us with stress hormones and narrowing our thinking.
But when we shift our attention to what is within our control, we begin to calm the nervous system and re-engage the prefrontal cortex for rational thinking.
The biggest thing we can control? Ourselves.
• Our breathing
• Our thoughts
• Our actions
• Our response to what’s happening around us
In the heat of the moment, it’s important to act and not react, as reacting will only add to our feeling of being out of control.
When life knocks us off course, the ability to pause, reset, and respond intentionally can make all the difference.
Let’s talk!
It is Important to Act, Not to React!