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Anger Quote by David A. Powlison

“Every one of us has a hard time changing. It’s hard to think straight about anger. It grabs you and it’s got you. The ancient Romans had a saying, Ira furor brevis est, “Anger is a brief madness.” Anger makes us crazy, blind, confused, and confusing. The beams of sanity are rare. Have you ever…” quote by David A. Powlison
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““Every one of us has a hard time changing. It’s hard to think straight about anger. It grabs you and it’s got you. The ancient Romans had a saying, Ira furor brevis est, “Anger is a brief madness.” Anger makes us crazy, blind, confused, and confusing. The beams of sanity are rare. Have you ever noticed and marveled later at your irrationality? What came over me? How could I have thought that, said that, done that? Sometimes the insanity is not so brief. It settles in and stays a while. Sometimes the habit runs on for a lifetime—a hamster wheel you don’t ever get off.””

David A. Powlison

About This Quote

Changing is difficult; anger clouds judgment and can become a persistent, self‑reinforcing habit that disrupts rational thought.

In simple terms: Anger impairs clarity and may linger.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and manage anger early.

Themes

psychology self‑control habit formation

Mood

thoughtful cautious

Type

self‑help motivational

When to use this quote

  • conflict resolution
  • personal growth
  • stress management

Key Concepts

cognitive bias emotional regulation

Questions to Reflect On

  • What triggers your anger?
  • How can you break the anger habit?
A Different Perspective

Anger’s brief madness can become a lasting cycle.

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