Neuroscientist and cognitive psychologist Dr Lynda Shaw provides five useful tips for controlling your anger at work.
Think Before You Speak
When we feel angry, it is very easy to get lost in the moment and to lose control and vocalise everything that pops into our minds without holding back. Learning to be more mindful before you speak can help prevent feelings of regret and guilt.
Get Active
We all know the benefits physical activity has on our all-round health. The endorphins released from our bodies can help to boost self-esteem and improve mood, so put on your trainers and take your heart rate up a notch for all the right reasons – it will do wonders for your emotional well-being and feelings of anger. Familiarise yourself with your own breathing by sitting down each day and concentrate on your in and out breath.
Take Some Timeout
Anger can sometimes leave you feeling suffocated and trapped. Remove yourself from the situation and have some space to bring clarity to your thoughts. Unresolved problems can always be revisited when both parties have had time to cool off. Practise positive thinking, be around people who can make you laugh or do things that you enjoy the most to help to alleviate tension.
Tame That Temper
Take some time to think about situations or the actions of others that really rile you up. By recognising your triggers you can think before you act and can prevent your temper from running away with you.
When It All Becomes Too Much To Bear
If you are feeling like there is no way out, seeking professional help can help to unravel the core of your anger issues and provide tips, techniques and advice for you to follow. As the saying goes, ‘Where there’s a will, there’s a way.’
