Live data from Hacker News

Ask HN: How to not bring emotion from work back home?

news.ycombinator.com

31–40 of 244 posts

Re: Ask HN: How to not bring emotion from work back home?

#31
if you are in a state that allows marjiuana consumption, and you do not have any history of substance abuse, a microdose of THC would probably change your mood. That or a cold shower, a quick run (runner's high), or something that physically alters your mindset quickly might do the trick.

Re: Ask HN: How to not bring emotion from work back home?

#32

The best way to not bring all that emotion home is not to have it in the first place. Anger is caused by frustration is caused by desire. People who dont give a damn about their jobs clock out at 4:56 and rest easy. The people who burn out or 'snap' are the ones whom take the most pride in their work. Learn to care less about your job. If you already have the emotions built up, then simply recognize that fact and tak…

[deleted]

Re: Ask HN: How to not bring emotion from work back home?

#34
From my experience, when you're at the edge, the only thing to do is release the anger. Chopping wood, sledge hammer to rocks, in general doing he-man break shit. Preferably in private.

Once that's worked out, I make sure to give the anger back to the person who's sourcing it. If I need to check myself by asking the person questions, I try to do it. But other than that, I really try my best to reflect that negative energy back at its source. And while I prefer being overt, I will be covert when the situation indicates that is necessary.

Or as another guy expressed to me, you need something like the pressure relief valve on a pressure cooker to blow off the steam a little at a time, so you don't explode.

Re: Ask HN: How to not bring emotion from work back home?

#35

From my experience, when you're at the edge, the only thing to do is release the anger. Chopping wood, sledge hammer to rocks, in general doing he-man break shit. Preferably in private. Once that's worked out, I make sure to give the anger back to the person who's sourcing it. If I need to check myself by asking the person questions, I try to do it. But other than that, I really try my best to reflect that negative e…

One more thing. A lot of people talk about "letting go". A wise man once told me he didn't know much about letting go, but he was real good at leaving things alone.

Re: Ask HN: How to not bring emotion from work back home?

#39
1) Reduce your physical vulnerability (diet, sleep, exercise) 2) Act on emotions if they are justified and you can do so effectively 3) Behave the opposite way if they are not, with sincerity 4) Identify soothing activities you can take refuge in 5) Build a life worth living, regular activities to focus on 6) Find a good therapist 7) Accept yourself

Re: Ask HN: How to not bring emotion from work back home?

#40

You might want to check out Stoicism, the philosophy, which has a lot to say about emotions. How to Be a Stoic: Using Ancient Philosophy to Live a Modern Life by Massimo Pigliucci is a pretty good intro. You can also try diving right into original sources like the Meditations of Marcus Aurelius, or the Enchiridion by Epictetus, or something by Seneca. There are many translations for all of these.

I was going to suggest the same. Stoicism as a practical life philosophy may help a great deal. William B. Irvine's "A guide to a good life" gives a practical intro and advice.
Post reply on HN