What Is Your Second Thought?

November 21, 2022

We’ve all been there: reacting instinctively to a situation and regretting our quick response. Whether it’s in times of anger, sadness, or glee, remember to take a moment to think past your first thought. 

There is so much power in slowing down and pausing before responding.

Pausing can be uncomfortable in the moment, but it allows you to internally acknowledge your instinctual thoughts (which may not be your most desirable) and piece together what you’re thinking and how you’re feeling. It gives you time to identify and acknowledge your second thought, which will likely be a different, less impulsive, and more thoughtful response that better aligns with your goals. 

For example, how many times have you said “yes” to a request before considering your needs and responsibilities? When you skip over your first thought — the thought that tells you to do what others want you to do — you can get to your second thought and consider your own needs. 

Learning to pause is personal growth, and personal growth is work.

Personal growth requires doing things differently than you’ve previously done them. And the rewards can be significant: feeling more confident about yourself, positive shifts in your interactions with others, and more. 

Rather than acting on impulse and emotion, you might find yourself speaking more thoughtfully and strategically, revealing the version of yourself that you want to be. Take note of changes to your self-confidence as your communication becomes more deliberate and your responses more aligned with the goals you have and outcomes you desire. 

Set yourself up for success with clear, deliberate, and thoughtful communication by remembering to pause and process what’s happening. Now, what is your second thought?