09/08/2025
What to Do When Emotions Run High
Instead of reacting immediately, take a moment to identify the emotion you're feeling, such as anger, frustration, or fear. Simply naming the emotion can help you feel more in control.
If you're feeling overwhelmed, it's okay to press the "pause button" and take a short break. You can say something like, "I'm feeling overwhelmed right now and need a few minutes to collect my thoughts. Can we reconnect in 15 minutes?".
Once you've calmed down, use "I" statements to share your feelings without blaming the other person. For example, instead of saying, "You always make me feel ignored," you could say, "I feel hurt when my ideas are dismissed because it makes me feel like my contributions aren't valued". Remember, active listening and empathy are also key to finding a solution together.