Word of the Day - by C-Luv - Aug 14

Proactive vs. Reactive

Proactive - Acting in advance to deal with an expected difficulty; anticipatory:

Reactive - Tending to be responsive or to react to a situation.

As we continue our inevitable progression as responsible adults, we are occasionally faced with the daunting task of having to make difficult and sometimes even pivotal decisions. Eventually we will all come face to face with the unwelcome duty of having to make life altering choices. We will ultimately contemplate ways to address decisions that affect our careers, relationships, investments, faith, and the likes.

There are two approaches that most individuals take when it comes to dealing with tough decisions. One method is to take a proactive approach to address the issue. Proactive measures for handling a difficult decision means that an individual has made a conscious effort to influence the outcome of a given situation. An assertive individual will make a decision based on what he/she feels will offer the best opportunity for success.

On the other hand, there are ultra-conservative individuals who would prefer to allow a challenging situation to resolve itself. This type of reactive approach oftentimes affords the individual with an easy escape. He/she will simply allow the outcome to be decided by chance or through the decision making abilities of someone else in order to lessen the burden on him/herself. Let's face it; some of us are bold and fearless so we like to take control of our own destiny. Others are far less confrontational and would prefer to seek refuge until the storm subsides. Sometimes our storms last far longer than intended simply because we are too afraid to face them head on.

Today, I encourage you to assert yourself. Dare to make your own decisions. Don't leave your destiny in the hands of chance. Get out from under that rock. You can't get to your sunshine without first enduring a little rain! Be blessed.

Corey R.