How to Stay Calm Around People Who Provoke You: 5 Psychology-Backed Tips

1. Pause for 5 seconds — the brain needs time to override emotional impulses.

2. Slow breathing calms the nervous system and reduces anger instantly.

3. Remember: provocation is about their emotions, not your worth.

4. Choose silence — not every comment deserves a response.

5. Calm responses weaken provocateurs and strengthen your self-control.