Most people react impulsively to things but the best hunters choose how to react. They take in all the information around them in the wild. After processing it, they intentionally decide to shoot or pause, to run or charge ahead. In both nature and in life, we run across situations that are tough — these trying times make you want to scream and yell, or flee. The best performers — in relationships, in the board room, in the gym — do what the best hunters do. They pause. They think. They decide. Only then do they act.
All too often, people cross our paths and leave a bad taste in our mouths. Your boss promotes your new colleague and you felt like you deserved it instead. Your neighbor just one-upped your home repair job that took you countless hours last weekend to complete. When someone rubs us the wrong way, we can choose to react with anger, jealousy, or fear. Many of us do react this way — with deeply rooted negativity. But the opposite is also a choice: to react with compassion. What choice do you make with your responses?
Every problem that comes up in your life has an opportunity for growth. Your peer’s promotion and not yours? Double down and work harder to show why you deserve it soon. Your neighbor’s badass backyard renovation? Good excuse to get to know him better — bring over a beer and toast his new setup. This compassionate reaction will change your outlook on your own problems and helps bring out positivity in others.
This is easier said than done — I get it. When something bothers you, it’s a gut reaction to be upset. Harness that and focus your attention like a hunter. Pause, think, decide, and then act. Next time you’re faced with someone with a clashing situation, start with compassion and you’ll be amazed how the circumstance changes for the better.
