Before approving any big idea, ask: what's the cheapest, fastest version testable within a week, instead of waiting for a full plan taking months?

Tell self "it makes sense to feel this" — don't contest.

Name your speaker's feeling and confirm it is reasonable, before you propose any solution.

When he speaks, name feeling: "sounds frustrated" — labeling calms emotions.

Name your child's feeling precisely before you try to fix the situation.

A teen's friendship breakup can hurt like a romantic one — don't minimize it with "you'll find other friends."