Even in circumstances in which anger is directed toward other people, it is rarely the most effective strategy for dealing with them. The Tao Te Ching reminds us that “the best fighter is never angry,” and if even fighters are more effective without anger, it is hard to conceive of cases in which it benefits us. As one understands the true causes and motives of his enemy’s actions, assigning blame for anything becomes less and less reasonable. Great people develop superior strategies for dealing with obstacles, threats, and aggression.18 A person who can stand her ground while responding to
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