Some conversations begin before either person says a word.

We arrive carrying emotion, assumptions, rehearsed responses, and hopes for how the conversation might go.

Before You Speak is a one-page Small Pause Practice designed to create a little space before a conversation that matters.

It is not a script for what to say. It is a quiet place to notice what is already present, what you may be assuming, and how you want to enter the conversation.

You may return to it:

• before a difficult conversation

• when you feel defensive or uncertain

• when the relationship matters as much as the outcome

• when you want to respond with more care and less urgency

This practice includes three reflection prompts and space to write.

Format

• One-page PDF

• US Letter

• Printable and suitable for digital journaling

Curiosity first. Then the words.