Kathy’s Rules for Writing, #17: On Angry Emails

Step 1

If you are angry, frustrated, or upset, write a nasty email. Let all your angst come out. Cry a little on the keyboard in frustration. Go beat up a pillow but don’t actually break things. Save your draft in which you tell everyone exactly what you think.

Step 1b (provided by my friend Jessica Brown):

Do not, under any circumstances, write in the recipient’s address on the angry email, lest the “send” button be accidentally pushed.

Step 2

Wait at least 30 minutes.

Step 3

Delete your email draft. Write a new email in which you considerately, objectively raise issues and an awareness of a problem. Reread to make sure no anger or frustration leaked through. Ask yourself: does this get out my anger, or will it help accomplish my real objectives? If it will help accomplish your real objectives, click send.

Not that I’ve been writing any angry emails lately…

Image Credit: Jared Wong with Creative Commons license