10 Ways on the Path to Not Overreact[http://www.dumblittleman.com/2009/03/how-to-avoid-overreacting-and-acting.html]

• Say Nothing. I'm sure you've heard the expression, "If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say it at all." It's simple, safe, and priceless when it comes to avoiding saying the wrong thing to someone.
• Write it Down. Instead of blurting out a comment or criticism, we can write it down, and revisit it in a day, and again in a week. This allows our emotions to cool and for a decision to be made based on logic.
• Cool Off. Sometimes people get to us, especially the ones close to us who know our 'hot-buttons', which they press liberally and amply. Lashing out won't exactly bring the two of you closer, or make either of you feel better (not long-term better, anyway), so cool off and come back.
• Don't Correct. When someone is wrong, is not always necessary to correct them, especially when it could cause them embarrassment or discomfort. In such situations, it's better to not say anything and let them save face, and not create tension.
• Uplift and Encourage. Instead of pointing out the negative in what someone is saying or doing, strive to find the positive things about them. Uplift them by letting them know what you like or admire about the situation.
• Appreciate Them. Someone might be wrong, mean, or totally unfriendly, but you don't have to base the way you're going to be, based on how they're being. Appreciate that some experiences made them the way they are, in the same manner as certain experiences shaped you, and appreciate them for it.
• What Would They Like? Ask yourself this question when formulating your response to someone. Instead of putting in your 2-cents, whether right or wrong, put in the answer that will bring a smile to their face. Today is too short to pass up any smile opportunities.
• Don't Judge. Stop the machine in your head from trying to relate what people are saying to something you know to be true or not true, or evaluating their actions based on this subjective scale. Simply listen and be in the moment.
• Learn. You don't know everything... right? Take this opportunity to learn from the people around you. Whether it's what they're saying, how they're saying it, how their body language or word choice enhances their message, and learn. Take what you like about them and make off with it like a spy!
• Life is a Game. And, as such, we have to figure out the rules by which to win. An important one states that the more people we have that are friends, and think positively of us, the more chances for fulfillment and enjoyment we will have in our social interactions. Thus, be nice - win at life.