Skill

Think About the Consequences

Look beyond the next thirty seconds before choosing what to do.

What it is

This skill means looking beyond the immediate urge and considering what your choice may create afterward.

How to do it

Pause before acting.

Ask what happens 30 seconds later.

Ask what happens tomorrow.

Ask what happens if this becomes a pattern.

Consider the impact on other people.

Choose the behavior you will still be willing to own later.

Remember

Do not trade the next year for the next thirty seconds.

Want to understand this more deeply?

Chapter 3: Slow My Thinking

Read the story and teaching behind this skill, then come back here when you want to practice it.

Consider what your behavior actually did, not only what you meant.

Recognize that feelings and urges influence behavior without making it inevitable.

Give yourself enough time to choose instead of react.