gather your wits

gather (one's) wits

To try to calm oneself and think clearly and rationally. Sir, you've just been in an car accident. Take a moment to gather your wits, then please tell us what happened. If your opponent starts badgering you during the debate, remember to gather your wits before responding.
See also: gather, wit
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

gather (or collect) your wits

bring yourself back to a state of equanimity.
1984 Geraldine McCaughrean The Canterbury Tales Poor old man, he was too astonished to speak. And before he could collect his wits, he was sitting at table…with his lord on one side and his daughter on the other.
See also: gather, wit
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary

collect/gather your ˈwits

try to become calm and think clearly: After such a shock I found it difficult to gather my wits.
See also: collect, gather, wit
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
See also:
  • gather (one's) wits
  • collect (one's) wits
  • collect your wits
  • collect/gather your wits
  • have one's wits about one, to
  • pull oneself together, to
  • for (one's) (own) sake
  • for sake
  • keep (someone or something) in sight
  • keep sight of somebody/something
References in periodicals archive
In any challenging situation, there are always two choices- you can panic and flail, or you can take a deep breath, gather your wits and pray.
My dengue diary
He's just the kind of person you'd want to punch in the face if only you can gather your wits about you fast enough and not be thoroughly astounded by his ability to make accurate deductions almost all the time.
I Am Sher-locked
If you're to make your shot count, it's important to first gather your wits. If there isn't enough time available to make the shot count, you're best advised to pass it completely.
How to miss a whitetail: there's no debate that there are more ways to miss a shot at a good buck than there are ways to hit one. Take these factors into account before-and when-your shot arrives, and your odds of connecting will increase
As evening twilight fades this month and the ghostly band of phantom fire materializes in the west, gather your wits, record your thoughts, and be sure to send Sky & Telescope your observations.
Observing the Zodiacal Light : A first glimpse of the zodiacal light can be a breathtaking experience, like uncovering the Sun's phantom necklace