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.
Dr. Rhea Haugseth has spent nearly five decades helping pediatric dental practices build exceptional teams.
As a pediatric dentist, practice owner, educator, speaker, and past President of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, she has learned that successful practices are built through confident teams, strong leadership, and proven systems—not by chance.
She is the founder of the Pediatric Dental Team Association (PDTA) and the Atlanta Pediatric Dental Assistant School (APDAS), where she continues to develop practical resources, leadership strategies, and training programs designed specifically for pediatric dental practices.
A Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry and past President of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Haugseth continues to lecture nationally and practice pediatric dentistry, bringing real-world experience to every PDTA resource she creates.