I found myself doing this in the shower today.

Have you ever find yourself hashing out an unresolved or as yet to happen argument in your head? Have you found yourself creating a reaction from a second party when you haven't confronted said party directly? Ever found yourself mad at someone because you thought about how you would feel if they did x?

A good example would go something like this: a plate or SO does something you don't like, so rather than talk about it like an adult, you create the ideal situation in your head where it's easiest to articulate all your points. You get mad at her, you sternly chastise her, you speak rationally and ultimately get her to see your point of view. You win the argument with your imaginary friend

Stop it.

Confront someone directly if you have a problem. More importantly, don't hash out imaginary problems that aren't even real. That's something women do.

Sure, thinking about a problem before you speak is absolutely a necessity. That time should be used to analyze all the facts, and prepare a thoughtful rebuttal to an informed dialogue. This is something I did almost every day when I was married to a hardcore feminist. I was constantly "in trouble" and never "allowed" to talk back without fear of getting in more trouble. Of course this was all in my head.

People want to you confront them. You will get more respect for having an opinion, even if people disagree with you. Just try not to be a dick about it.

When I start to fall into that old trap of play fighting with my pretend friends, i shift gears and talk to myself about the things I need to accomplish that day. Make lists, rehash your plan for a project at work, think about your chores, figure out what kind of fucking bananas you have to buy at the grocery store tonight. Do something productive with that time.

This doesn't only apply to women. This is equally toxic for personal relationships in and outside of work.