Responding Vs Reacting

Ever noticed how a few words can mean one thing to someone and something entirely different to another? That happened to me on a recent drive. It's amazing how a single phrase sparked a chain of thoughts about what can happen in ten fleeting seconds.

This episode explores how a moment of pause can shift your entire perspective. We look at why such a small slice of time can make a major difference, especially for those of us with dyslexia or ADHD. It's more than a simple observation, it's a powerful reminder of how we can shape our own experiences.

The Power of a Pause

When we move through life at full speed, it's easy to gloss over the small moments. But I've realised even ten seconds of intentional pause creates space to refocus. It's like letting your brain take a quick breath, so you don’t get lost in autopilot.

For example, instead of reacting right away to a confusing text or email, give yourself a short window to decide how you really want to respond. This tiny habit can be a game-changer for anyone who feels easily overwhelmed.

The Two Meanings Behind the Words

The phrase that started all this was something you'd never guess had two meanings. One moment, it was an innocent statement. The next, it took on a completely different tone.

It reminded me that the language we use often has hidden layers. What I hear isn't always what someone else hears. That gap between what’s intended and what’s understood can be bridged if we take just a moment to re-check the context.

“It’s incredible how just 10 seconds can reshape your entire day.”

Dyslexia, ADHD, and Overthinking

If you’re dyslexic or have ADHD, you might recognise the feeling of your mind jumping in too many directions at once. It only takes a small spark to set off a whirlwind of ideas, emotions, and interpretations that can be tough to unravel.

In moments like these, I’ve found it helps to slow things down and ask: what's really going on here? That question can keep you anchored, so you don't run off on mental tangents that might not be truly connected to the moment.

Making the Most of the Magic Ten Seconds

You might wonder how to start using this simple concept. Here are a few ideas:

• Count to ten before sending a big message or making a decision.
• Take a quick mental inventory of what’s happening in your body: Are you tense? Are you breathing well?
• Notice if your thoughts are racing or calm. Then decide if you need more time or if you’re good to go.

These small steps can feel awkward at first, but they become second nature over time. It's like building a mindful muscle you didn't know you had.

Applying It in Everyday Moments

An unexpected phone call or a last-minute task can throw off your entire groove. Using that ten-second trick helps you stay in control of your reactions. It doesn't solve all your problems, but it often prevents the small bumps from turning into big snags.

It's also a brilliant way to give yourself a gentle point of reflection. Instead of speeding through each day, you’re more likely to notice the moments where something different could happen—like changing your perspective or trying a new approach.

Key Takeaways:

• A short pause can clear mental chaos and bring clarity.
• Words have layers of meaning—don’t assume everyone hears them the same way.
• Dyslexic and ADHD-friendly strategies often focus on slowing down the rush of thoughts.
• Ten seconds is enough time to make a significant shift in your reaction.
• Everyday pauses can lead to more mindful and intentional choices.

Sometimes, we just need a reminder that something so simple can be so impactful, especially if you’re prone to overthinking or feeling scattered.

If this idea resonates with you, check out the full episode at the top of this page. I dig deeper into why this quick approach works and share more personal anecdotes that might help you see your own thought patterns in a new light.