This technique gives you room to wait, particularly when things threaten to get hot and angry. People will often pressure you to make a decision or agree with a plan right away. Assertive delay allows you to take a break—whether for a few minutes or several hours. During the interval, you can calm down, think carefully about what’s being said, and prepare a good response. “You’ve told me a lot, and I need time to sift through and see what I think.” “Give me an hour. This is important, and I want to think carefully before I say anything.”
DBT book