The Reaction Rollercoaster
This is a love note in the form of a consideration.
#understatementoftheyear
There have been some shifts this past year.
From: Hyper-reactive, Go-go-go-go-go!
To: Wait.
To: React! Hurry!
To: Survive.
To: Wait some more.
In your work you may have seen this pattern too:
Event. React! Wait.
Event. React! Wait.
This is like a rollercoaster: From torture to exhilaration and back again. And this pattern isn’t limited to 2020/2021.
The reaction rollercoaster shows up in big and small ways.
Like…
Check your phone and find an email. React! Wait. [Repeat] Check your phone and find a DM. React! Wait.
Or, my employee is freaking out. React! Wait. Client has a crisis. React! Wait. Boss is upset. React! Wait.
Reaction is value in sheep’s clothing.
And the thrill of the ride can be addictive and reacting gives us a sense that we’re necessary, important, and that our actions are critical.
It feels like value and value feels amazing.
But I want you to consider this:
What do you do when there’s nothing to react to? What do you spend your time and energy doing? Scrolling pinterest or tiktok or anywhere else? Dwelling in the past or the should’ve’s? Perfecting something that’s already good?
What’s it like when you’re waiting? Does it feel good? Does it feel like stuckness? Does it feel sad? Hopeful? Empty? Restful?
Events are outside of our control. Reaction and waiting are optional.
The last question:
If you are currently in a state of waiting, what are you waiting and wishing for?
Imagine yourself in the absence of a reactionary response. If what you’re waiting for is something you actually want, there are other ways you can use those other moments that will help you create it.
With love, joy, and gratitude,
Tarah
P.S. If you’re a leader or entrepreneur and want to get off the reaction rollercoaster and create your results from intention, join me in the Leaders’ Coaching Mentorship. It’s a six month program where you’ll go deep into the science and the art of coaching. You’ll learn how to powerfully connect with and lead others. And you’ll get coaching and support every step of the way for yourself as a human and for your skills as a coach leader. Reply here and I’ll share more. Applications close April 30th and we get started June 1.
RECAP
The reaction cycle can be thrilling and addictive but what is it that’s going on in those in between moments? In the absence of reaction, whether you’re waiting for the other shoe to drop or just hanging out, what is it that you really want?
Connect with Tarah Directly
Tarah Keech is a Master Life Coach, a burnout prevention and recovery expert, and has a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology and a resume of Fortune 100 consulting.
No, she can’t read your mind but she knows how your thoughts work and can help you see them and then use them so you can level up your life personally and professionally.
Basically, she’s a combination of strategist, mentor, and bestie. Except she gives you better advice than your friends do and she teaches you how your brain works so you can take informed action that creates real change.
She helps smart leaders level up their businesses and lives in the Level Up Membership.
And to connect with Tarah directly, complete this form.
