About this quote

The line points to that brief, steadying pause you get right before committing to something risky or new. It reminds you that a clear, intentional breath can shift a jittery body into measured action. Notice what tightness or second-guessing shows up in that moment and use the breath to settle your hands and head. Then move forward with purpose instead of launching from panic.

When to use it

• Right before I walk onto the stage for a product demo, I take the deep breath before the plunge so my opening isn't shaky.
• Before my open-water swim race, I stand at the shoreline and take the deep breath before the plunge to quiet my nerves.
• When I'm about to sign the lease on a small studio, I tell myself it's the deep breath before the plunge and read the contract one last time.
• Before I call my parents to tell them I'm moving overseas, I take the deep breath before the plunge so I can stay calm and clear.