What I have learned, and it is very difficult to do. It is re-learning how you think and it takes time. It is not automatic. When someone does something that makes me want to blow, stand back and find a way to give them the benefit of the doubt before you say anything. Then you can approach it in an non-confrontive way. One reason I blow is because I over-personalize the act or statement when in fact, it had nothing to do with me personally. I have to say "this is not about me, it is about what they are trying to achieve."

The lady that cut in front of you in the grocery line, may have been in a big hurry and had a sick child on her mind. If brought to her attention mildly, then she probably won't blow. Assume her mind was on something concerning herself, not about hurting you. Because most likely that's the truth.

Like a child takes my son's floaty, instead of accusing, say "oops, I think you grabbed the wrong floaty." Instead of automatically assuming the child is a thief; assume he has a similar floaty and it was a mistake.

That is what I have been attempting, and it has worked well for me. I'm still snappy at times, but it has also helped me to be more gentle and caring towards others and that has been a very positive experience.