Founding Father Thomas Jefferson famously advised, “If you lose your temper, count up to ten before you do or say anything. If you haven’t calmed down, then count to a hundred; and if you have not calmed down after this, count up to a thousand.”

Simple, right? But anger can be a firecracker, ready to explode before you reach double digits.

During the 90’s in Mexico, there were TV commercials where a disobedient kid pushes the limits, and a parent's hand cocks back in rage. Suddenly, the scene freezes. The narrator cuts in, reminding the parent to take a deep breath and count to ten.

It's a powerful message: children make mistakes, and violence only scars, not solves. The parent calms down, and the scene resumes with a loving approach.

This calming technique transcends parenthood (and thankfully hitting kids is far less common these days). We all face moments that ignite our temper. Perhaps you have a fiery personality, someone who thrives on order, discipline and getting things right. But remember, a calm mind is your greatest weapon. Your greatest strength.

So next time you feel the heat rising, take a deep breath, and count. Not to punish yourself, but to give yourself the space to think clearly and respond effectively.