I absolutely love this quote that has been widely shared online and often attributed to Warren Buffett (and sometimes even Bruce Lee) – but according to fact-checkers, neither actually said it. The origin remains unknown, but the message is powerful enough to stand on its own:
“You will continue to suffer if you have an emotional reaction to everything said to you. True power is sitting back and observing things with logic. True power is restraint. If words control you, that means everyone else can control you. Breathe and allow things to pass.”
It’s a reminder that control over our reactions is one of the rarest and most valuable skills we can cultivate. When every comment or opinion stirs us, we give away our inner peace to anyone with an opinion. But when we develop emotional restraint, we gain the freedom to respond instead of react.
Why am I writing this?
Because I recently caught myself doing the very thing this quote warns against — replaying something someone said over and over in my mind, letting it steal my balance. The truth is, I know this lesson. I’ve practiced it before. And when I do, it works.
Here are the ways I remind myself to practice it in the moment:
- Pause Before Responding
When you feel triggered, resist the urge to reply immediately. Take a slow, deep breath and give yourself a few seconds to process. This short delay often prevents words you’ll regret. - Observe Without Judgment
Notice what’s being said and how it makes you feel — without instantly labeling it as good, bad, fair, or unfair. This creates mental space for logic to enter before emotion takes over. - Reframe the Comment
Instead of thinking, “They’re insulting me,” try, “They’re expressing their perspective, not defining my worth.” Reframing reduces the emotional charge. - Ask Yourself: Will This Matter in a Year?
Most verbal slights dissolve into irrelevance over time. Keeping that perspective helps you decide whether to engage or simply let it go. - Practice Controlled Breathing
The simplest tool for restraint is your breath. A slow inhale and exhale can regulate your body’s stress response, giving your mind space to think.
I’m sharing this because it’s not about never being affected – it’s about noticing when you are, and gently guiding yourself back to center.
Holistic Wellbeings 
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