How to keep your cool in 6 easy steps

1. Pause and consider the benefits of getting angry

Those skilled at self-control aren’t just more popular than their raging colleagues, they’re more successful too. In a study the biggest difference in profitability lay in their levels of self-control.

2. Identify the root cause of your anger

Addressing the true root cause of your anger in a cool headed manner will ultimately be more productive than lashing out on the person who brings you the news you don’t want to hear or the person in closest proximity.

3. Visualize the consequences of your actions

Predicting the future consequences of your actions for a split second often defuses the situation. Do you really want to be on bad terms with the person you’re directing your anger at?

4. Use a journal

If you can jot down your emotions on paper, then regularly review these you’ll end-up being more aware of the triggers and patterns which make you angry. You’ll then be able to identify situations that make you angry and ultimately be able to avoid them.

5. Look at the positives

Try to find a positive explanation for the other person’s behaviour. Look at the situation from their perspective, does it make sense as to why they are acting in this way now?

6. Take it out on an inanimate object

I recommend a stress ball!

Related articles

• Dealing with Work Stress (thindependence.com)
• Defuse Differences That Threaten Harmony (blogs.harvardbusiness.org)
• Making Progress on Seeing Relationship Through a Different Lens (faithallen.wordpress.com)