Quick Spoon: Why did I react like that?

In this Quick Spoon, Ross explores the first skill in the McIntosh Leadership Framework: Pause.

Inspired by a powerful reflection from Gabriella Braun, this episode looks at those moments when our reactions feel immediate, emotional, and difficult to control.

Why does one comment roll off our backs… while another lingers all day?

And what might change if, instead of reacting automatically, we paused long enough to notice what’s happening inside us?

Ross shares a simple practical experiment to help leaders interrupt autopilot, create choice, and respond with greater awareness and intention.

In this Quick Spoon

🥄 Why our reactions at work can feel instant

🥄 The leadership power of pausing before reacting

🥄 How to interrupt autopilot and habitual responses

🥄 A simple reflection question to try this week

Key reflection

“Between stimulus and response… that’s where your leadership lives.”

People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.

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