How to Avoid Overreacting and Acting like a Juvenile
Have you ever reacted badly to what someone said or did? Perhaps you were being righteous, defensive, or merely wanted to make sure you corrected some erroneous facts. I'm sure you have, as have I.
Looking retrospectively(adv.回顾地), I've made plenty of social errors by saying or doing the wrong thing. Overreaction would be an understatement and I'm sure you can relate this to some situation in your life. The point isn't to dwell on(详细论述) these facts, but to learn from them and move forward to being a better person -- to mature.
Several Ways on the Path to Not Overreact
Say Nothing
I'm sure you've heard the expression, "If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say it at all." It's simple, safe, and priceless when it comes to avoiding saying the wrong thing to someone.
Write it Down
Instead of blurting out(脱口说出) a comment or criticism, we can write it down, and revisit it in a day, and again in a week. This allows our emotions to cool and for a decision to be made based on logic.
Cool Off
Sometimes people get to us, especially the ones close to us who know our 'hot-buttons'(能引发立即反应的敏感事情), which they press liberally and amply. Lashing out(严厉斥责)won't exactly bring the two of you closer, or make either of you feel better, so cool off and come back.
Don't Correct
When someone is wrong, is not always necessary to correct them, especially when it could cause them embarrassment or discomfort. In such situations, it's better to not say anything and let them save face, and not create tension.
Uplift and Encourage
Instead of pointing out the negative in what someone is saying or doing, strive to find the positive things about them. Uplift them by letting them know what you like or admire about the situation.