S top!

Just pause for a moment.

T ake a breath

Notice your breathing as you breathe in and out.

O bserve

• What thoughts are going through your mind right now?
• Where is your focus of attention?
• What are you reacting to?
• What sensations do you notice in your body?

P ull back – put in some perspective

• What’s the bigger picture?
• Take the helicopter view.
• What is another way of looking at this situation?
• What advice would I give a friend?
• What would a trusted friend say to me right now?
• Is this though a fact or opinion?
• What is a more reasonable explanation?
• How important is this? How important will it be in 6 months time?
• It will pass.

P ractise what works – proceed

• What is the best thing to do right now?
• Best for me, for others, for the situation?
• What can I do that fits with my values?
• Do what will be effective and appropriate.