Mindfully Managing Anger

Characteristics of Anger:Theme: Being thwarted in pursuit of goal that matters to youEffects: Anger controls, punishes and retaliatesDangerous effect: Anger calls forth more anger. It is difficult not to respond to anger with anger, especially when it appears unjustifiedWhy do people want to change anger?It is the dangerous emotion that can quickly hurt others, psychologically, and physicallyMany taught not to express anger -> guilt, shameFor some own anger can get out of control -> fearCommon Anger TriggersInterference and lack of efficacyDisrespectSomeone trying to hurt usAnother person’s angerInjustice: both societal and personal (not being given credit for work)Disappointment in how a person has actedBetrayal, abandonment, rejectionBeing falsely accusedBreaking a cultural ruleAnger AntidotesPut yourself in the other person’s shoesDon’t take it personally!Is the other person mirroring your own unwanted qualities?Do you have a need that is not being met?Check your expectation!Check for an underlying emotion (fear, hurt, vulnerability)Is there an important message?Keep a healthy distance from triggering objects!Cultivating loving-kindness and compassion