What is the difference between acting or reacting? In this article we will see how these two approaches play a fundamental role in the life of each of us.
Last update: Augusts 24, 2020
What difference is there when a person, in the face of life experiences, has a tendency to act or react? What does this attitude imply on a personal level? Perhaps you have never thought about these two concepts which are, in fact, very important.
In the world of work they tend to lead the vast majority of professional careers, depending on whether an individual, man or woman, chooses one approach or the other. In this article we will try to answer the proposed questions, but not only.
You too, surely, have a friend or acquaintance who stands out because he is able to progress over time, constantly. Both in the workplace and in other aspects of his life. He is a hunter of opportunities and challenges that push him to continue reaping successes. At the same time, you may know someone else who seems to be almost drowning in their work. He has no aspirations and, seen from a distance, he almost looks like a leaf moved by the wind.
And you, are you people who prefer to act or react? Find out with us!
The difference between acting or reacting
An acting person takes the initiative
You still don't know if you are an acting or reacting person, but would you like to know? Well, the first thing you will need to consider is whether you have what is called a spirit of initiative.
This concerns a skill that is highly valued in the workplace, as highlighted by Professor Miriam Escobar Valencia, professor at the University of the Valley of Cali, Colombia. In his article Labor competencies: The labor strategy for the competitiveness of organizations? (Professional skills: the work strategy for the competitiveness of organizations?) Makes the concept of initiative coincide with that of proactivity.
When an individual takes the initiative, he performs certain actions that turn him into a "generator" rather than a "recipient". For example, instead of waiting to find a job offer that gives him that career opportunity he is waiting for, he contacts the companies that interest him directly. And it does so via a cover letter or, simply, via email.
A good clue as to whether you are someone who prefers to act or react. You rarely wait for events to happen: reflect, analyze the context and make a series of decisions that will allow you to anticipate situations. You have a natural predisposition to take the initiative, try, try and move on. Test reality, not the other way around.
It does not matter if you find closed doors, you are aware that "no" and some failures must be put in the budget. You are proactive, you do not stand still and you are constantly active. All this, believe it or not, will automatically allow you to build different options. Alternatives that, on the other hand, will not always give the desired results, much less immediately.
“Taking the initiative doesn't mean being pushy, annoying or aggressive. It means recognizing your responsibility to make things happen. "
Stephen Covey
A person who reacts expects results
At this point, you already know the main difference between acting or reacting. If you have not identified with the former, you are probably part of the reactive group. But beware: there is no opposition with those who act, since you will be able to obtain important professional results also on the basis of this second approach.
Let's take the example of an employee who works a lot, seriously and flawlessly. His results, however, are always the same. In short, you find yourself in the position of that shadow on the wall that no one sees. How come? Because you haven't told anyone you are here. Some even go so far as to limit (or hide) certain abilities, as if they were something to be ashamed of.
Sometimes, it is normal to choose to be a person who reacts, since this position of "invisibility" allows you to be particularly at ease, keeping any risks in check. But there are cases in which you will feel the need to be more active, even if you do not actually know how to vent this ambition.
A disorientation that translates into a consequent immobility or that is the awareness that "it is not worth it", preferring by far the calm and safety of your comfort zone. An area where stress and fears prevail.
"Setting goals is the first step in making the invisible visible."
Tony Robbins
The two faces of reacting
Being people who prefer to act or react depends on an attitude that is chosen and which leads to different results. If you are a reactive person, you can be happy in the workplace without experiencing the stress of the new, living a quiet routine without changes. However, if you are yearning for something more important or greater, this attitude can become a real drag.
What happens when you expect changes resulting from the reaction? There is usually a feeling of frustration. We complain and point the finger at external, transcendental facts, such as bad luck. This feeling, however, comes from wanting to be proactive, but not knowing how to start acting.
Identifying with a person who acts or reacts is closely related to one's personality. If you are a reactive person, it will take a while for you to feel comfortable in the new dynamic, which is diametrically opposite. This is not a bad thing, quite the opposite. You will be more flexible and will be able to act or react according to the circumstances, or when you need them.
Do you prefer to act or react? We conclude by saying that neither aspect is better or worse than the other. They are simply different forces that will guide you on different paths. Of course, you can choose to change your attitude at any time, when the path you are on does not fully satisfy you.
