“Whatever choice you make makes you. Choose wisely.” — Roy T. Bennett
At the end of last week, I thought I might continue exploring the tools I use to separate reaction from response, but as this week unfolded, my reflections kept returning to something deeper: how perspective shapes the choices I see — and the ones I believe I have.
Following last week’s exploration of reaction vs. response, I’m continuing to notice how awareness gives me power over my choices. Every moment offers a chance to pause, think, and act intentionally. The question isn’t only how I respond — it’s also how I see the situation that requires a response.
My counselor once used the phrase “choice points,” a concept that mirrors what I now think of as pause points. Both ideas remind me that in nearly every circumstance, there is space for deliberation — but that space only exists if I’m aware of it. Too often, I move through life reacting automatically, not realizing a choice is there. Mindful awareness helps create that space, turning impulsive reaction into intentional choice.
As I sit with this idea, I realize that my perspective — how I interpret my options — is often my greatest limitation. My mind too easily defaults to a filter of “can’t” instead of “can.” When an opportunity appears, I’m quick to list reasons it won’t work rather than ask, “Why not?” or “How can I make this possible?” That negative bias feeds self-doubt and keeps me from action.
That mindset has real consequences. When I believe I have no control, I slip into powerlessness. Worry spirals into anxiety; fear narrows my view until the only choice left seems to be avoidance. And avoidance, for me, used to mean turning to alcohol — to forget, to numb, to escape. That illusion of relief only deepened the sense of having no choice at all.
But I’m done with that. Now I try to stay open-minded when opportunities arise. Perspective and choice are active practices, not passive states. Shifting perspective takes effort. Making good choices takes courage. But they’re worth it — because each time I choose mindfully, I reclaim a bit more of my freedom.
“When you have to make a choice and don’t make it, that is in itself a choice.” — William James