Not everyone thinks Walrus editor-in-chief Jonathan Kay is good at opinions:
Kay seems deaf to criticism, but maybe Canadian
writers and critics have misread the situation. What if Kay isn’t a
mansplaining egoist? What if he's actually a compulsive editorializer who can’t
control his habit? If that's the case, we should try to help him with tips
for triumphing over temptation:
Identify
opinionated situations and avoid them. Consider
skipping documentaries, newspapers and podcasts altogether.
Find
other pleasurable activities. Search for a new
hobby that demands your full attention. Enjoy art? Take a watercolour class!
Place
a rubber band around your wrist. Every time you get
the urge to write an editorial, flick the rubber band. You will eventually associate opinions with pain.
When
you get the urge to share your thoughts, quickly engage in an alternative
activity. Play a game of Tetris or a few rounds of
Kubb – anything that distracts you from the urge to opine.
Avoid
touching your keyboard. The more often you use your
computer, the greater the chances that you’ll start editorializing.
Exercise
on a regular basis. Editorializing can be the
result of excessive stress or tension. Exercising regularly will help relieve this
stress and tension.
Best of luck Jonathan Kay! Struggle is a
normal part of the journey to recovery. Keep fighting and don’t give in.
