By Brigham Young
Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
"The best remedy for anger is delay." This Brigham Young quote about anger stands out in a world that often encourages instant reactions and quick fixes. The simple wisdom suggests that, when emotions run hot, there might be a different path—one that steers us toward understanding rather than regret. Anger is a natural emotion, but how we handle it can shape our lives and relationships. Let's explore what this advice really means and why it's worth taking to heart.
What Does This Quote Mean?
The Brigham Young quote about anger, "The best remedy for anger is delay," offers a practical prescription for anyone tempted to act on strong feelings the moment they arise. On the surface, it seems to suggest a basic step: when you are angry, wait before you react. Literally, it's about postponing action or speech until the heat of anger has cooled off a little.
But the deeper insight is about self-control and understanding the consequences of reaction. When we are angry, our judgment can become clouded. Emotions can push us toward saying harsh words or making decisions we soon regret. Delay gives us valuable time: time for those strong feelings to settle, and for our rational mind to catch up with our emotional state.
On a metaphorical level, the "remedy" in the quote does not cure anger like medicine fixes an illness. Rather, it provides space. This space lets us examine why we are upset, what really triggered our feelings, and how we might respond in ways that align with our values rather than just our impulses.
By pausing, we can see the situation more clearly and choose actions that promote resolution rather than conflict. Waiting does not mean ignoring or stuffing down emotions, but letting the surge pass so that we do not become captives to it. Brigham Young's counsel pushes us to resist the urge for immediate retaliation and to trust in the power of patience.
How Can You Use This Quote in Life?
Applying "The best remedy for anger is delay" in daily life can help you manage emotions and build stronger connections. Here are some practical ways to put this Brigham Young quote about anger into action:
1. Count to Ten Before Responding
When someone says or does something upsetting, press pause. Counting slowly to ten can be enough time for your initial wave of anger to subside, allowing you to respond more thoughtfully rather than snapping back immediately.
2. Take a Physical Break
If a conversation is escalating or tempers are flaring, excuse yourself and step away for a few minutes. Go for a brief walk, splash cold water on your face, or just breathe deeply. Changing your environment, even for a moment, can disrupt the cycle of anger and give you a fresh perspective.
3. Write Down Your Emotions
Instead of expressing anger out loud, grab a notebook or your phone and write down what you are feeling and why. This act of journaling allows you to process your feelings privately and can help you discover what's behind your anger before deciding what to say or do next.
4. Sleep On It When Possible
Not every dispute needs an immediate resolution. If you feel yourself getting angry about something that isn't urgent, give yourself permission to sleep on it. Often, with a night's rest, problems seem more manageable, and impulsive reactions lose their urgency.
5. Use Delay as a Teaching Tool
Whether with children, coworkers, or friends, you can model what it looks like to handle anger constructively. Announce that you need a moment before continuing a heated discussion. This shows others that it's okay to pause and comes from a place of seeking understanding, not avoidance.
Delaying your reaction to anger does not make you passive or indifferent—it makes you deliberate. These simple habits prevent regrettable words or actions and lead to healthier relationships over time. Every time you choose delay, you give yourself the gift of clarity and prevent small moments of upset from growing into larger regrets.
The Motivation Message
This is your reminder that you have the strength to shape your responses, no matter how strong your emotions feel in the moment! Taking a pause when anger hits does not mean giving in or letting things slide. It means you're choosing your wellbeing and the quality of your relationships over a quick fix.
You are not just a passenger on the rollercoaster of your feelings—you have a say in how you show up and what you create in every moment. Each time you delay, you're building your power, your patience, and your influence. That's real courage! 💪
Trust yourself to press pause, even when it's tough. Little by little, you'll find more peace and fewer regrets. Your words and actions will land with intention, not just emotion. The next time you feel anger rising, remember: you have time, and taking it is a sign of strength. Step up and give yourself the space you deserve!
About Brigham Young
Brigham Young, who was born in 1801 and died in 1877, was a prominent American religious leader, pioneer, and second president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He guided thousands of settlers across the American West and was known for his practical wisdom as much as his leadership. His life spanned times of intense hardship, resilience, and building community from the ground up.
Young's worldview centered on personal discipline, patience, and the power of self-mastery. He frequently spoke about the importance of controlling one's emotions, not only to avoid personal trouble but also to maintain peace with others. The quote, "The best remedy for anger is delay," reflects his belief in measured action over impulsiveness—a principle that was crucial during the challenges and conflicts of pioneering days. Brigham Young understood that lasting outcomes are built not just on faith, but on daily choices about how we handle ourselves and each other. His advice continues to offer useful guidance for navigating both everyday frustrations and life's bigger trials.
