Writing in reverse is simple: You have to reverse the roles of the writer (you) with the recipient (your audience).

Writing in reverse is emotionally intelligent--because it helps you develop your empathy muscle. In addition, it keeps you from letting emotions dictate your message, as was the case in my situation. But by taking a pause, I was able to calm down first, so I could give a more balanced reply--one that wouldn't actually make the situation worse.

Keeping your recipient in mind, ask yourself:

• Am I writing too much?
• Is the message confusing? Will it raise more questions than it will answer?
• Is there anything that could be misinterpreted, or that sounds angry, desperate, or emotional?
• Is there anything unnecessary I can remove from this message?
• Would it be better to communicate this by phone (or in person)?