Take 10 Seconds

While I was growing up, my mother said to me, "count to ten". If there is someone who has frustrated you, someone has cut you off in traffic, please take a moment before you react. Count to ten. Take a deep breath. This is one of the most important of life's little rules. Take a moment to think about your reaction.

When someone frustrates you and you immediately write an email to react, do not send it. Save it as a draft. Come back a few hours or a day later. Re-read your initial reaction. I bet you that you will be amazed at the anger you conveyed in your initial message. Take a moment and re-write it. You will be able to think clearly after the time has passed. You will be able to re-write the message in a more professional and reasonable manner. Both of you will benefit.