Anger

How to manage this dangerous emotion

The greatest cure for anger is to wait, so that the initial passion it engenders may die down, and the fog that shrouds the mind may subside, or become less thick.

Seneca

I think I’ve written about this, but it’s worth writing about it again. I’ll probably write about it again in the future because important topics are worth returning to so we can retain the wisdom. It’s interesting Seneca was aware of the brain fog caused by anger before science could explain the fight or flight response created by anger which causes blood to leave your brain and go to your muscles which decreases brain function. Many of our poor decisions are made in anger, and it’s no wonder why. After an encounter, we come to terms with our mistakes, but oftentimes pride prevents us from atoning. It goes without saying what you should do if you’re in the wrong. Still, to avoid this scenario entirely, I highly suggest politely excusing yourself if you’re becoming flustered to prevent these situations and also maintain the mental clarity needed to properly debate or finish whatever it is you’re doing that’s causing anger. Perhaps like me, it tends to be playing a competitive game you’re not too good at. Conclusion: Ignore your initial response to anger and wait for your body to return to equilibrium before you make decisions you may later regret. A keystone principle to live by is “Never make permanent decisions based on temporary emotions.”