Anger is an emotion that plaques everybody sooner or later. Some people know how to handle their anger, some repress it (very dangerous) and others just explode a couple of times per day for the smallest reasons just to be calm again afterwards. Then there are the people who seem to be constantly angry and embittered towards life in general. The embittered ones usually have lots of emotional baggage, from rejection to extreme pain, hiding behind their anger shields and thus for them, I would recommend professional help from a psychologist or a psychiatrist.
Even the sunniest of personalities sometimes get angry. Experiencing the emotion is normal. It’s our reaction to the emotion that usually causes the problems.
Let’s look at some things that you can do to ensure that you handle your anger in a healthier way.
1. Count to 10
This is a piece of advice that has stood the test of time. However, the other day I witnessed a situation where an angry woman turned around and counted from 1 to 10 very fast and with a determination that would have frightened a world class boxer. The secret is to want to cool down in the first place! It’s all in your attitude.
2. Deep breathing
Again, I have seen people starting to take “deep breaths” through their noses while turning all red in the face and sounding like a dragon about to breathe fire. The secret is to really concentrate on calming down through slowing inhaling and exhaling and trying to think of something that will not make you angrier.
3. Get away from the person or situation that’s making you angry
Walk away, before you say or do anything that you are going to regret later, get away from it all. Once again, you are removing yourself from the situation to calm down. Slamming doors, revving your vehicle, throwing signs, pulling faces or stomping your feet like an angry giant will not help you to calm down. Neither would it help you to feel better or calm the situation. Think before you react. Most conflict situations are just not worth it.
4. Call up a calming buddy
If someone or something has really shaken you up, go to or call a friend that has a calming influence on you. That person should act as your “voice of reason” when you are not feeling reasonable at all.
5. Get the aggression out of your system
Exercise regularly to make sure you get rid of all the built-up aggression in your system. Remember the purpose of the exercises is to get your calmer. If, for instance, you always feel more psyched and charged after your normal exercise routine, try something else to calm you down like swimming or yoga.
