Anger isn’t something you want getting out of control. Ask anyone criminal defense lawyer in Boulder, and they’ll likely have a story or two about people’s emotions getting the better of them and leading to dire consequences. That’s why it’s important to have coping skills and anger management techniques that can help you keep a steady hand on how you’re feeling (and, thusly, how you behave). Here are five tips to help you calm down when you’re stressed.
Identify your anger triggers—The things that upset us are often unique to us, so an important step in learning to control anger is first learning to identify the things that make you angry. Maybe you’re the type who gets frustrated being in a long line? Maybe you don’t like the way people talk to you. Or you could be the type who’s prone to getting angry when they’re tired or hungry? Knowing what triggers your anger will allow you to be prepared for when you need to stop it from getting worse. You can also better structure your life so that you aren’t constantly finding yourself in anger-inducing situations.
Take a step back—If a situation is getting your blood boiling, why not just leave? In many cases, if you are frustrated by a situation, it is best to move on. However, it might help to step away and refocus your thoughts before you continue the conversation. Be emphatic that you aren’t trying to dodge a difficult-but-necessary conversation (when applicable), but that you need to calm yourself before proceeding with your discussion.
Talk to someone—You’ve heard of venting before, right? Sometimes all it takes is to vent to someone willing to listen to your problems. This strategy can sometimes backfire and make you more angry. This is why it is important to have a friend who can help you develop strategies to reduce anger.
Get your body moving—Anger can create a surge of energy, but you can burn that right off by engaging in physical activity. Go for a run, hit the gym—do something to get your body moving and release that built-up tension. Engaging in regular exerciseIt is a good way to reduce stress. You’ll periodically clear your mind, and find it easier to manage your thoughts and feelings in the long-term. Speaking of which…
Relax and clear your mind—Angry thoughts, it seems, build upon one another. Anger begets more anger, and before you know it, you’re out of control with rage. How can you break this cycle? Change the way you think about angering situations. A bit of detachment can go a long way, and you can even start developing your own phrases that can keep you focused on what’s truly important. You can learn to control your anger and calm down.
