Let your emotions guide you but not rule you

Respond, Don’t React

One of the most powerful habits you can develop is the ability to respond instead of react. This is where real strength and self-control come from. The key? Practice the mindset of pause, process, plan, and proceed.

When life throws something at you, don't let your monkey mind take the wheel. Instead, take a breath and say to yourself, “This is what’s happening” (stated as objectively as possible). Then remind yourself: “I’ll do my best to respond because that’s my true source of power.”

Your power lies in how you choose to act, not in how you instinctively react. Stay present—don’t get ahead of yourself or let your emotions drag you off course. Feel your feelings, gain insight from them, but don’t give them the wheel. Let them be your guide, not your driver. They can point you in the right direction on the map, but they shouldn’t determine the route.

Remember, you almost always have some control over what you do next. Focus on taking positive action, and you'll find that responding from a place of strength leads to better outcomes.