Left unchecked, anger can damage relationships, careers, even lives. Here are 10 simple ways to cool your anger before it gets out of control:
- Take several deep breaths. Breathe in calmness and then release anger as you breathe out.
- Do something physical. Take a walk, go to the gym or walk some stairs. Not only is exercise healthy for your body, it’ll do wonders for your mood.
- Take a break. Before you blow up, walk away from the situation to regroup and gather your thoughts.
- Meditate or listen to some soothing music. Rewiring your thought patterns toward something peaceful and relaxing can help defuse anger.
- Be grateful. Learn to find the lesson in every situation and be thankful for opportunities to grow as a person.
- Write it out. Journaling your thoughts helps you vent in a safe and positive way.
- Count to 10. This might sound simplistic, but it’s an easy and quick way to take the edge off anger.
- Refocus the negative energy of anger into something more positive. Look for humor in the situation.
- Learn to be assertive. Learn what your needs are and how to make them clear to others in a way that is respectful of yourself and others, not pushy or demanding.
- Seek professional help. If you find you’re angry a lot, recognize when anger might actually be a cry for help.
Rhea M. Haugseth, DMD maintained a private practice in Marietta, GA from 1982- 2017. She attended the University of Louisville Dental School and completed her pediatric dental residency at Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital / Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio. She is a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry and a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. She is proud to be a Fellow the American College of Dentists, the International College of Dentists, and the Pierre Fauchard Academy – National Honorary Organizations for Dentists.
Dr. Haugseth is a Past President of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), the Southeastern Society of Pediatric Dentistry (SSPD), and the Georgia Academy of Pediatric Dentistry(GaPD). Dr. Haugseth has been a National Spokesperson for the AAPD since 1989 and has been frequently interviewed for radio, print, and national television.
Dr. Haugseth is the Founder (2013) and Director of the Atlanta Pediatric Dental Assistant School in Atlanta Georgia. She is also the Founder (2014) and Director of the Pediatric Dental Team Association. She is committed to pediatric dental team members and continues to develop ways to enhance their knowledge and skills both in and out of the dental office.