The one thing to do before you speak

Today's realization

Take a breath before you speak.

Because we try so hard to do things well, please try to gently turn your awareness toward being kind to yourself.

When you are talking to someone, you might think, 'I have to reply right away,'
or 'What is the right way to respond?' before you speak,
or if someone says something unpleasant, you might reflexively say something you don't mean just to protect yourself.
That happens, doesn't it?

That is exactly when you should take a breath before you speak.
Just doing that can protect you,
and it can also allow you to be considerate of the other person.

By relaxing, even for just a brief moment,
you might be able to gently let go of words that were about to fly out,
or find the words you truly want to cherish.
'What kind of atmosphere do I want to create here?'

Why not try spending your day today
by asking yourself that question?