3.2 Relationships, Emotions, and Evolution

3.2 · Relationships, Emotions, and Evolution

The Traffic Jam

You’re stuck in traffic, already late for work. A driver cuts in front of you without signaling. You feel the heat rising…

A) Honk loudly and shout: “Learn how to drive!”

B) Breathe, accept the moment, and let the car in.

C) Post a long rant on social media about bad drivers.

Your friend forgets your birthday. No call, no message, nothing. Your ego whispers: “Clearly, they don’t care about you.”

A) Assume the worst and cut off the friendship.

B) Reach out kindly, maybe they had a tough week.

C) Remember that love is about giving, not keeping score.

D) Send them a bill for emotional damages.

Your partner says: “You never listen to me!” Instantly, your ego wants to defend itself: “What? I always listen!”

A) List all the times you did listen, as evidence in your defense.

B) Pause, reflect, and ask: “Can you help me understand what you need?”

C) Change the subject to avoid conflict.

D) Pretend to listen while secretly planning dinner.

At work, a colleague takes credit for an idea you shared last week. Your heart races, your mind screams: “That was MY idea!”

A) Say nothing, but gossip later with everyone else.

B) Plan subtle revenge by stealing their next idea.

C) Politely clarify your contribution, without anger, keeping cooperation as the goal.

D) Quit your job dramatically and post about it on LinkedIn.

You see someone dressed in a way you find odd. Instantly, a judgment pops up: “What a ridiculous outfit.”

A) Say it out loud to make sure they learn.

B) Post their photo online with a sarcastic caption.

C) Notice the judgment, smile at yourself, and let it go.

D) Reflect: “Why does their choice trigger me?”