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Got Attitude?

Overcome blind reactivity to develop a skillful mind with Buddhist anger-management techniques.

Steve Armstrong

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Patter Hellstrom, Conflict, acrylic ink on polypropylene, 2007; courtesy of the artist; © Patter Hellstrom

A few years ago I was in the middle of a difficult negotiation with the Maui County Department of Water Supply, a local government agency, trying to resolve a long-standing stalemate. Things already weren’t going my way when the leading official said to me, “You surely don’t need me to remind you that life’s unfair! You’re old enough to know that!”

His rebuke triggered a wave of emotion and reactivity. Embarrassment, humiliation, shame, and then indignation washed over me. I watched the impulse to be angry with him rise like a tide and flood my mind. Schemes, strategies, and thoughts of revenge rushed to the surface. I was tense and self-conscious. I longed to escape.

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