In a method for actuating a switch element of a valve device between a first end position and a second end position, in a normal mode within a cycle following an end of a first energization, a movement of the switch element in a first direction effected by the loading device is retarded in a first direction by a brief second energization (“braking pulse”) that is introduced within the cycle once a pause period has ended following a characteristic point in time. It is provided that the optimum pause period and/or the optimum variable characterizing the braking pulse be ascertained in an adaptation mode.