Pause before choosing an action · D1.19

Pause before a regrettable everyday response

You are uncomfortable and considering a quick response that may make the situation harder.

Everyday practice

Try these steps

1. Name the response you are considering and its likely immediate and later effects.
2. Choose a brief pause, a harmless alternative activity, or a request for support while deciding.
3. Return to the practical choice when you are ready; you do not need to feel calm or endure a harmful situation.

An example

I want to send an angry message. I can save the draft and decide after reading the actual request again.

Reflect

Did the pause help you make a more deliberate choice?

Next time

Keep an alternative that was useful and change one that was not.