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Physician Daily · Tuesday, August 25, 2026
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Worksheet Sheet Anger and irritability

The Pause Before You Say It

Build a few seconds of space between feeling it and saying it.

Purpose: Build a few seconds of space between feeling it and saying it.

When to use: Use this on a calm day so the plan is ready when you need it.

Worksheet prompts

  1. What do you usually say in those first few seconds? Write it exactly, word for word.
  2. Three small physical things you can do instead, in the first ten seconds.
    Feet flat on the floor. One long breath out. Unclench your hands.
  3. What would you rather have said?

You are not aiming for perfect control. A couple of seconds is enough to change the outcome.