What’s the essence of this rule?
A short pause before reacting reduces aggression and helps avoid impulsive decisions. The technique is simple:

Stop for 5 seconds.
Take a deep breath in and exhale slowly (your exhale should be longer than your inhale).
Only then, respond.
You can take 10 or even 15 seconds, but 5 is the minimum that anyone can manage. This method is useful not only in relationships but also in interactions with friends and colleagues.

Why does it work?
A small pause helps shift from an automatic reaction to a thoughtful response. It gives you time to hear both yourself and the other person and choose words that align with your values.

For example, instead of thinking, “He’s so annoying!”, you can focus on the core issue rather than throwing accusations. This lowers the risk of saying something hurtful in the heat of the moment.

How to apply this rule in daily life?
Assess the situation. Sometimes, it's better to speak right away — like if your partner is about to leave for work or a long trip, and you don’t want to be left with unspoken words.

Take 5 seconds — and give your relationship a chance to grow stronger!