Warren Buffett announced recently that he will retire as CEO of Berkshire Hathaway at the end of this year. Buffett, who is often hailed as one of the greatest investors of all time, is a legendary figure in the world of finance. With a career spanning over seven decades, he built his wealth and reputation through astute investments, value-based strategies, and an uncanny ability to spot long-term potential. As the chairman and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, Buffett transformed a struggling textile company into a powerhouse conglomerate. Buffett’s keen financial insight and disciplined decision-making have made him a model of success. He credits part of his longevity and success to a principle we can all apply.

One of Warren Buffett’s most well-known quotes is simple yet profound advice: “You can always tell someone to go to hell tomorrow.” Buffett credits this lesson to his mentor, Tom Murphy, and it’s one that has helped him maintain a calm, thoughtful approach throughout his career.

It’s deceptively simple but deeply effective. Instead of reacting impulsively, give yourself space to process. That pause creates the opportunity to reflect—are you responding to the situation at hand, or are you reacting out of frustration, pride, or anger?

This approach is especially relevant to lawyers. Emotional intelligence—our ability to understand and manage our emotions—can be a superpower in the legal field. Imagine the difference between snapping back during a deposition versus taking a breath and crafting a more measured, strategic response. That’s the power of patience and self-awareness.

Here are three ways to lead with emotional intelligence:

1. Pause Before Responding: When you feel the urge to fire off a heated response, wait. Even a few seconds of deliberate breathing can help shift your mindset.
   
2. Understand Your Emotions: Consider what’s really behind your reaction. Are you angry because of a client’s criticism, or does it tap into a deeper sense of being undervalued? Naming the feeling can give you more control over how you respond.
   
3. Practice Empathy: Take a step back and view the situation from the other person’s perspective. You don’t know what they are going through. Are they stressed, frustrated, or overwhelmed? This doesn’t excuse bad behavior, but it can help you respond rather than react.

In a profession where reputation and relationships matter, managing our emotions thoughtfully is not just wise, it’s essential. As Buffett demonstrates, mastering ourselves first is key to mastering any situation. So next time you’re tempted to react on impulse, remember that you can always tell them to go to hell tomorrow. Chances are, you won’t want to by then.