Sometimes it’s hard to be the adult in the room. I am at my best when I have a clear head and when I see situations as neither good nor bad. I am not at my best when I am frustrated/angry/sad. The steps to a clear head and neutrality are this:

1. Someone says something “dumb” or asks the same question (asked and answered) for the third time
2. The heat of frustration and anger rises from my chest, through my throat, and into my head. I’m like Lewis Black’s Anger in Inside Out.
3. Deep breath
4. Calm Down.
5. Don’t Panic

I don’t remember to follow my own advice . But it does work every time I remember to do it. Then, I’m in a better state of mind to deal with whatever I need to deal with. Instead of making it worse by being a hot head.

What makes you angry?