Cool Anger Before Replying
Stoic Thinking · Beginner
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Wait, assume carelessness before malice, and calm your body, just as Seneca advised.
Micro-habits to get started
Small actions of a few minutes to start this habit:
Ten minutes without replying
When something angers you, don't reply or decide anything for ten minutes. Draft the message if you want, but don't send it.
The first impulse is the fiercest; if you let it pass, it loses its force.
10 minCarelessness before malice
Look for an explanation other than bad intent: haste, distraction, ignorance.
How can you know someone acted maliciously when you don't know their motives?
2 minCalm the body
Unclench your face, lower your voice, and walk more slowly.
The mind ends up mirroring the composure of the body.
2 min