What does HALT stand for?

Today, I want to chat with you about a common challenge many of us face, especially our high school students: decision anxiety. Making choices can be tough, but I’ve got 4 Simple Steps to help you manage that anxiety and improve your Decision Fitness: your ability to be in your best state to think things through clearly.

Anxiety can really throw us off our decision-making game, but there’s a handy method from A.A. called HALT that can help us check in with ourselves and get back on track. It’s all about recognizing where you are emotionally and supporting yourself to be in a better state for making decisions.

So, what does HALT stand for?

• Hungry: Am I physically needing something like food or water? Proper nourishment can help fuel your brain for better thinking.
• Angry: This is a broad term that can cover feelings like frustration, upset, or fear. Identifying if you’re angry can help you figure out what support you might need.
• Lonely: Feeling isolated or sad can affect your decision-making. Recognizing loneliness allows you to seek out connection or support.
• Tired: Both physical and mental exhaustion can impact your choices. Acknowledging when you’re tired helps you find ways to recharge.

Pause and ask…

I was reminded of this every time my kids walked through the back door after school, often hungry, upset, or just plain exhausted. It was a cue for me to think about what kind of support they might need, whether it’s a snack, a listening ear, or just some downtime.

Remember, we’re all unique, so what works for one person might not work for another. The key is to recognize how you’re feeling and then take action to support yourself.

So next time you’re feeling off your decision-making game, just HALT:

• Check if you’re Hungry, Angry, Lonely, or Tired.
• Take a moment to address your needs.
• Move forward with improved decision fitness.

I hope these tips help you navigate any decision anxiety you or the young people in your life might be facing. Remember to take care of yourself and your emotional well-being.

Warm regards,

Decision Coach

Clarity4Action.org