Think before you react

• How often do you say something stupid that you regret later? How often have you said something like, “God, Why’d I say that?” or “How stupid am I to handle it like that?”

• Thinking before you speak can be very helpful for us to be more sensitive and understanding. It can offset the negative with something more positive. So, don’t let your hormones be in charge during challenging circumstances; you got a brain for that.

• Observe your actions, reactions, and your words. Talk slowly, or better, don’t talk if you didn’t think it through. Understand others’ viewpoints, and make sure your facts are correct. Consider all possible outcomes and what could happen. Finally, understand that most things are not about you - it’s usually about the other person , and you’re merely a side-actor in their life.

• There is no need to suppress your feelings but let the constructive, positive ones flourish. Keep yourself calm, ask them more profound questions, and understand their ‘why’ before reacting. No two people are the same, so it’s better to work with them to find solutions instead of changing everyone to be more like you.

But that’s just my take. Comment and share yours.

If this topic interests you and you’re curious to learn more – check out this book through this Amazon affiliate link that I thoroughly enjoyed – The Black Swan: The Impact of the Highly Improbable