The Best Way to Handle Anger

It’s happening again. You can feel your shoulders begin to rise. Is that steam blowing out of your ears? Is your jaw sore from clenching?

Someone or something pissed you off and you really want to do something about it; plus, our current lifestyle will be having its first anniversary next week.

Combine the two and I’m not surprised if there is a volcano erupting.

First and foremost, you need to accept the fact that your anger is real. Own it. It’s well deserved and should be acknowledged. It’s time to move forward with the best way to handle anger.

First, let’s discuss the situation.

Angry? Sad? Check.

Angry that you got that mark on your recent test? The idea of finding out where your teacher lives and throwing raw eggs at his front door seems like a good idea. Why should he give you such a grade?

Sad because SHE broke up with YOU? How can that happen? We know you want to reach for the laxative and mix it in her water bottle, so she can use the bathroom. For a long time.

And of course the kicker: It’s been forever since you have been to a party. Hugged your grandparents. Went to the mall. Had a sleepover.

I’ve written about silver linings and the best COVID tips, I could find, but sometimes it’s just not enough. You’re angry and frustrated and you just have to get it out.

Sweet revenge may be what you are craving to punish those who have hurt you, especially from the guy that first ate that bat. There’s a better way. The best way to handle anger is coming up next.

Wait a sec.

Between stimulus and response, there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom. Victor Frankl.

Waiting to respond from your negative situation gives you time to reflect and think about your next steps. During this waiting time, which is your growth period, we suggest you do this first:

Here’s an idea!

Exercise. By doing so, you will burn off the steam and handle your anger.

Get outside and walk. Run. Take a yoga class. Any exercise class. Just move to get the endorphins flowing. Watch how you will begin to feel happy – it’s like magic. If you decide to venture outside and live in Canada like me, don’t forget to layer up. It will make your time outside much more enjoyable.

After just 20 minutes of moving, you will 

• Have calmed down 
• Collected your thoughts in a rational manner
• Communicate more effectively and eloquently in that text or conversation. 

Before you know it, any ideas of revenge will be a thing of the past. You may still be angry, but you will definitely have calmed down. Although things haven’t changed, I can guarantee that you will feel so much better. Calmer. Healthier.

Now would be a great time to grab your most trusted friend and get it all out. Yell, scream and share your most frustrated thoughts with someone you trust and love.

The next time you feel your frustrations begin to rise and anger rears its ugly head. Wait. Process what is going on before you make any decisions. Then, take the time to move your body as vigorously as you are able for at least 20 minutes. Top it off with a good old-fashioned bull session with a friend, and you’re good to go!

I’m so grateful to be able to have the opportunity to write what I’m passionate about and what I think will serve others. If you would like me to write for a product or service you represent or for your own company, please be in touch.