How You Can Tame Your Anger Before It Becomes a Rage
A possible solution to managing our anger before it turns into a rage
Albert Einstein said, “Anger Dwells Only in the Bosom of Fool”. Anger is a powerful emotion we all experience when we feel we have been wronged. Sometimes, we could feel that way when we encounter some form of injustice or someone being bullied and victimised. There could be many more situations that can arouse one’s anger.
Some examples are stress, not being appreciated, financial challenges, work issues, relationship issues and even a lousy traffic situation that can make you angry.
Rage is a stronger emotion related to anger. The difference is that rage can turn violent or destructive in uncontrollable ways. When we see rage coming from someone, we usually step in to intervene because we sense something terrible may happen.
While anger can sometimes be considered reasonable, rage is intolerable because of its destructive power. But can we take it upon ourselves to control our emotions so that even though we become angry, it does not progress into a rage?
Doing something to distract ourselves mentally or physically
Anything we can think of to distract ourselves may be helpful. Listening to upbeat music, doing something with your hands may help, and talking with somebody about your frustration may help. Walking away from the place of agitation may also be helpful.
When you feel that your temper is flaring, put all your relaxation skills to work, like deep breathing exercises and repeating a calming word such as “Take it easy” to tame your anger so it will not escalate into a rage.
I find that sharing our angry thoughts with someone more rational and cool-headed is helpful. Of course, there is a risk that you may speak with someone who may provoke your anger further. Sometimes, it is better to cool down before talking with anyone.
You know who can help and who cannot, so when we feel our anger rising, we must take steps to prevent it from becoming a rage that is both unhelpful and destructive in words and actions.
Managing anger is a lifelong process; if you fail the last time, do not give up. Because you recognise it as an issue, you are already trying to find a cure or a way out.
Life presents many situations when we can be agitated to the point of being angry. We wish that life is pleasant always, but that is not a reality. Never allow yourself to go into a rage. That is unwise and would not solve any problems.
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