Dear Ms. Lipstiq,
I have a serious problem when it comes to controlling my temper. I tend to snap at everyone and at anyone even for the slightest matter. Of course, after that I would start to feel extremely bad. The other day, I prepared dinner and invited my friend over. A sudden phone call came from her boyfriend and she said that she had to leave immediately. I got angry and snapped at her at that very moment. A few days later, I realised that she had to leave because it was an emergency. But this happens often. The moment someone says something, I will start to get angry and after a few days, I would be able to rationalize things. I’ve lost many friends because of this attitude of mine. What can I do to control my temper Ms. Lipstiq?
– Ms. Carol
(Source: divorcesupport.about.com)
Dear Ms. Carol,
It’s a good thing that you are able to acknowledge the fact that you have an issue with your temper. We admit that your actions have made you lose many friends. Only people who know you well would understand you. Here is what you can do the moment you start to get angry over an issue. If you are in a discussion, then close your eyes and take a deep breath. Start to breath deep, down from your abdomen and get as much of fresh air as you can into your lungs. Once that has been done, start to think rationally. Start to ask yourself if it’s worth getting angry over something so small and what are the consequences going to be like if you were to show them you’re anger. If you feel you don’t have time to do all this, then always carry a stress ball with you. The moment you are about to say something, squeeze the stress ball as hard as you can. You could also excuse yourself from the conversation for awhile so that you wouldn’t say something which would hurt anyone. It takes time but sooner or later, you would know how to control your temper. Try the methods above and see if things get better.
Ms. Lipstiq
