A reaction is a thoughtless action often based on emotions, and it’s not the most rational or appropriate way to act. Responding, on the other hand, is taking the situation in, and deciding the best course of action based on values such as reason, compassion, cooperation, etc.

Response And Reaction

We must pause for however long it takes and prevent immediate actions based on internal reactions. We can watch the urge to act irrationally arise, breathe, and then let it go away.If necessary excuse yourself and return to the issue only when you’re confident you can respond and not react.

Pausing To Prevent Reactions

To be mindful, pay close attention to how your mind reacts. It means watching yourself when something happens that might normally trigger some kind of emotional reaction.

Being Mindful To Prevent Reactions

Consider what the most intelligent and compassionate response might be. What can we do that will help our relationship, teach, build a better team or partnership, make the situation better, calm everyone down, including ourselves?

Responding 

'Do you have the patience to wait till your mud settles and the water is clear? ~Lao Tzu Much of our lives is spent in reaction to others and to events around us. The problem is that these reactions might not always be the best course of action, and as a result, they can make others unhappy, make things worse for us, make the situation worse.