“Between stimulus and response, there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response.” — Viktor Frankl We all have trigger moments: A rude email, a sharp comment, an unexpected change. The knee-jerk reaction? Snap back. Defend. React. But here's the truth: you are not your first reaction. In neuroscience, that space is your prefrontal cortex catching up to your emotional brain. When you pause—even for 3 seconds—you give your mind time to shift from autopilot to awareness. Try this simple 3-second pause rule: Breathe in through your nose Exhale slowly Ask: “What would my wiser self do right now?” That pause won’t always feel natural—but it will feel powerful. Reactivity is easy. Response is a skill.
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