Write about, not with, emotions.

Speak when you are angry—and you’ll make the best speech you’ll ever regret.
(Dr. Laurence Peter)

You may be required to write about topics that anger you. A customer has written you a derogatory letter. An employee has demeaned the organization. A local politician has taken an insulting stance. Now, you are going to write a letter in response.

Write the letter, but don’t send it. In a professional setting, communications laden with negative emotions, condescending language, or insulting words will not help you convince others that you are right and they are wrong. Instead, use an objective tone.

The writing process may help you think through your ideas on the topic and overcome the angry feelings. But don’t send it—yet. Let it sit until you can approach the topic logically. Then re-write it.

You will make a much stronger case for your ideas when you can express them logically. Describe your feelings; don’t use them. Otherwise, you may not like the response you receive in return.

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