Young dude 20 here

So I noticed I operate on a reactionary basis to people in the sense that I always respond to what they do or say or their reaction subconsciously. It’s not like I’ll get submissive to them because depending on their actions I will stand up for myself or fight if need be or if they cross a line.

But I started realizing I’m almost never operating in a space unless I’m alone of putting myself first or my state of mind and frame.

Like for example I’m starting to think and force myself to do when I catch myself entering that reactionary state and the other persons frame I’ll tell myself wait. Hold on.

what do I want to do? How do I feel about this person? How do I feel about this situation etc etc

Oddly enough the moment I started doing this I felt way way calmer and secure mentally and anxiety went down. And that I actually don’t usually care about the situation or geniunely like that person.

I feel this is a great first step in the right direction and I was wondering if I could get tips on this? Or how do you guys feel on what I’m saying?