Learning to Reset After Letting My Emotions Lead

G=Goals O=Outlook  A=Authentic T=Truth(#coateisaGOAT)

This week, I had one of those moments — the kind where you know exactly what you should do, and yet you do the opposite. Instead of pausing and responding from a place of peace, I let my emotions grab the wheel. Before I knew it, my alter ego (we’ll call her Hornetta — and trust me, my Mama knows her all too well) was in full control.

If I’m being honest, my quick reaction probably had more to do with stress and anxiety than anything else. But that’s no excuse. When I let my anxiety lead, it robs me of my peace just as quickly as my emotions do. It’s a reminder that reacting from a place of tension instead of trust never leads to the outcome my heart really wants.

The truth is, there are no mulligans when it comes to words that have already been spoken. Once they’re out, they can’t be undone. Thankfully, this situation didn’t end in disaster, but it did leave me with that uncomfortable feeling — knowing I didn’t show up as the best version of myself.

So this week, I’m taking time to reset — not just physically, but spiritually and emotionally. Resetting in His presence helps me release the need to react and reclaim the peace I gave away. It’s in that quiet space that I can regroup, reflect, and remember who I really am — a work in progress, trying to let my words be more of His words and my ways more of His ways.

Next time my emotions or anxiety try to lead, I hope I pause, breathe, and remember that self-control isn’t about holding back — it’s about letting God step in first.

Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry. — James 1:19 (NIV)

When emotions or anxiety start to rise, what would happen if you paused long enough to let peace speak first?

This week, let’s practice the pause. When tension starts to build or emotions start to rise, take one deep breath before responding. Whisper a quick prayer — “Lord, help me reflect You right now.” Then respond from that grounded place of grace instead of reaction. Small pauses create space for peace to move in, and that’s where transformation begins.