I need a moment to collect my thoughts before I answer.
collect one's thoughts
idiomTo become mentally composed, especially after being distressed, surprised, or disoriented; to become calm or organized in one's emotional state or thinking, as in preparation for a conversation, speech, decision, etc.
After the unexpected news, she sat quietly for a few minutes to collect her thoughts before calling her family.
The professor paused mid-lecture to collect his thoughts, ensuring he could explain the complex theory clearly to his students.
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abound in one's own sense
To follow one’s own inclinations and opinions.
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ace up one's sleeve
A surprise advantage of which others are not aware.
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act one's age
To behave in a manner appropriate to one's age.
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act one's age, not one's shoe size
Synonym of act one's age (“to behave in a mature manner; to avoid being childish”).
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afraid of one's own shadow
Exceptionally timid.
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air one's dirty laundry in public
To reveal one's sordid secrets to the public.
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air one's dirty linen in public
Synonym of air one's dirty laundry in public.
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albatross around one's neck
A characteristic, possession, associate, or previous deed that hinders one's ability to succeed.