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Feeling provoked?

Anger deliberately stirred up by another's actions. Being provoked tests our ability to respond rather than react.

The unmet need

Cessation of the provocation; recognition that we have the right to not be baited; self-control in the face of manipulation.

A question to sit with

Who benefits from my reactive anger? Can I choose my response rather than give them the reaction they want?

What to do right now

When provoked, pause and breathe. Ask: "Who wins if I react?" Choose your response consciously. Sometimes the most powerful act is refusing to be baited.

Related feelings

Track this feeling with Arpsy's free check-in · Explore the emotion wheel · All emotions