If you're feeling angry after a confrontation at work, what is the best action to take before driving?

Taking a few minutes to cool off is the best action to take before driving after experiencing anger from a confrontation at work. When emotions are high, particularly anger, they can impair your judgment and decision-making abilities. Allowing yourself some time to calm down can help you regain clarity and reduce the risk of impulsive reactions that could interfere with safe driving.

Cooling off may involve simple deep-breathing exercises, counting to ten, or sitting quietly to let the initial intensity of your emotions fade. This approach promotes a stable mental state, which is essential for focusing on the road and reacting appropriately to various situations while driving.

Although calling a friend to discuss feelings or taking a walk around the parking lot might also provide a means to alleviate some frustration, these actions may not be as effective in preparing you to drive safely immediately after an emotional confrontation. It's crucial to prioritize emotional regulation to ensure a clear mind when getting behind the wheel. Driving while still feeling angry without taking time to cool down could lead to dangerous driving behavior or potential accidents, which is why the best option is to take a few moments to compose yourself first.