A consequence should have a purpose larger than satisfying anger.

LEADERSHIP

WHAT THIS MEANS

If a consequence exists only to discharge how you feel, it will be sized by your feeling rather than by the situation, and it will accomplish nothing once the feeling passes. A purpose gives it shape: to prevent a repeat, to repair something, to make a boundary real. With a purpose you can tell whether it worked. Without one, you can only tell whether you feel better.

Before imposing anything, finish the sentence: this is so that. If you cannot finish it, wait. The version you arrive at once you can name the purpose will almost always be smaller and more effective.

A QUESTION TO SIT WITH

What were you hoping to accomplish the last time you punished someone?

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