How To Avoid Expressing Frustration

I get angry. I get frustrated. And I am frequently tempted to express that frustration using harsh language. But I have learned to take a moment, calm myself down, and think about what I really want to communicate. 

Sometimes, I say nothing. I realize that it’s not worth making the situation worse by stirring up contradictory feelings. 

When I do say something, instead of barking like a frightened dog and spewing a stream of curse words, I make every attempt to state my position calmly and accurately. 

This approach has a number of advantages. First, I train myself not to react without thinking. Reacting without thinking typically causes more trouble.

Second, by taking a moment and forcing myself to note how I am feeling and think through what I want to say, I come to a better understanding the situation, which helps me to react in a more constructive manner. 

Third, I avoid hurting people’s feelings. This lessens the intensity of the emotional aspect of the situation and prevents conflict. W can burn bridges fairly easily when we react angrily; it’s best to avoid that.

Notice when you’re about to react with harsh words or emotions. Catch yourself. Take a moment to calm down and think over what’s at stake before committing a response. It everyone did this one small thing, the world would be a kinder place, and we would all feel respected. Let’s each try to take a step in that direction.