Anger and Accountability

For many men, the cause of their crimes is fear. They are not afraid, however, as they should be, of doing evil deeds, but of suffering them.

– Seneca

Accountability does not wear the face of anger. Rather, it adopts the style of understanding and growth. Anger, just like a raging storm, leaves destruction in its wake. Words shouted in anger, impulsive decisions borne out of fury—regret almost always follows these actions.

Real leaders emphasize the importance of being cautious of letting your emotions get the better of you. They warned us about the pitfalls of letting our anger command our actions. Afterward, we're left bewildered, questioning what drove us. Seneca's works extensively deal with the theme of controlling anger, and he often underscores the importance of self-discipline, restraint, and understanding in managing such powerful emotions.

In the heat of a moment, when emotions surge like a tempest, the temptation to act can be overwhelming. Whether it's the drive to express anger or to indulge in excess, it's crucial to pause and really think about what happens next. The seemingly irrefutable logic of the moment, the mind's fervent green light, cannot be trusted blindly. You must stop. You must think. You must practice the art of self-discipline and look for a better approach.

You, as a leader, must do the same. When anger beckons, remember the regret that follows in its wake. When temptation calls, remember the shame that comes after. Instead of succumbing, hold yourself accountable. This is not a path of repression; it is a path of understanding and growth. It is the path of true leadership. And it is your path to tread.