Anger Management Through Problem Solving

Situations which bring us to frustration and provoke anger are challenging. Being disrespected and treated unfairly arouse intense feelings. You can lose control in a split second.
Facing provocation is serious stuff. Reviewing your best options and responding effectively can make a difference. Some of us can process the circumstances and problem solve to avoid unhealthy anger while responding effectively. Problem solving is not innate. It is a learned skill.
If angry episodes are an issue for you, learning problem solving will help. Once you have tried and applied the problem solving steps it will become second nature. Here are the steps:

1.  Define the problem clearly: Separate facts from assumptions
2.  Brain storm possible solutions (use creativity). The more solutions, solutions the better
3.  Rate pros and cons of each solution. Evaluate the solution which can yield the best outcome
4.  Plan steps carefully.
5.  Implement plan and evaluate outcome

Recall an angry incident and retroactively apply the above steps. Chances are you will yield a more effective response. Practice problem solving whenever possible. The more you practice problem solving the more likely you will problem solve when faced with an anger provoking situation. Additionally, you will learn to reduce stressful reactions to life's tests.

 

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