collecting oneself
Steadying one's nerves
Collecting oneself means regaining composure after being flustered, emotional, or caught off guard.
The image is of scattered thoughts or feelings being gathered back together: She took a moment to collect herself before responding.
Often appears as collect yourself in the imperative, urging someone to calm down.
- calmnessPeaceful mental state
- pulling togetherCoordinating collective effort
- concentrationSustained single-minded attention
- readinessState of being prepared
- groundingConnecting to earth
taking a breath · gathering thoughts · getting centered · self-control · steadying · steady nerves · clarity · resilience · patience · inner calm · awareness · staying present · preparation · acceptance · attentiveness · centering · mindfulness · equanimity
collecting oneselffalling apart
Gradually breaking into pieces
panicking · losing it · breaking down · freaking out · losing control
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