Action Quote by Sylvia Boorstein
“My father . . . used to say, 'I need my anger. It obliges me to take action.' I think my father was partly right. Anger arises, naturally, to signal disturbing situations that might require action. But actions initiated in anger perpetuate suffering. The most effective actions are those conceived in the wisdom of clarity.”
About This Quote
Source Book: “The Power of Now” (cited), 1997
Anger signals problems but acting in anger often worsens them; calm clarity leads to effective action.
In simple terms: Anger warns, but calm decides.
Key Takeaway
Pause, reflect, then act.
Themes
anger
clarity
action
mindfulness
Mood
thoughtful
serene
Type
philosophical
practical
When to use this quote
- conflict resolution
- workplace decisions
- personal crises
- parenting
- social activism
Key Concepts
emotional intelligence
wisdom
self‑regulation
Questions to Reflect On
- When did anger hinder your decision?
- How can you cultivate calm before acting?
A Different Perspective
Anger can cloud judgment, leading to harmful choices.
![“... every single act we do has the potential of causing pain, and every single thing we do has consequences that echo way beyond what we can imagine. It doesn't mean we shouldn't act. It means we should act carefully. Everything matters [p. 41].” quote by Sylvia Boorstein](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/5ab/sylvia-boorstein-7241_quote_every-single-act-we-do-has-the-potential_75621.jpg)
![“... freedom of choice is possible. Life is going to unfold however it does: pleasant or unpleasant, disappointing or thrilling, expected or unexpected, all of the above! What a relief it would be to know that whatever wave comes along, we can ride it out with grace [p. 35].” quote by Sylvia Boorstein](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/340/sylvia-boorstein-7241_choice_freedom-of-choice-is-possible-life-is-go_122468.jpg)
![“I love the phrase 'I am not afraid!' Maybe it's the best phrase we can say, other than 'I have everything I need.' Maybe they are the same. [p. 14]” quote by Sylvia Boorstein](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/f28/sylvia-boorstein-7241_fear_i-love-the-phrase-i-am-not-afraid-maybe_356864.jpg)
![“... life is difficult and painful, just by its very nature, not because we're doing it wrong [pp. 17-18].” quote by Sylvia Boorstein](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/c2a/sylvia-boorstein-7241_life_life-is-difficult-and-painful-just-by-it_369102.jpg)
