h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

Let's face it, there are some people who know our trigger points and how to press them. Little ><<> is a master of this!

Recognising what causes us to snap should help to control it. Not at first, but you become better at recognising when it's about to happen.

If something happens regularly, then look behind and see what is causing the fuss and upset. Deciding to react in a different way can help. For instance laughing. Being prepared is a great way of dealing with something.

Another trick is to react in a strong way, but without getting angry - a bit like putting the angry 'hat' on. Choosing to act that way can mean you handle the situation better. Once you've snapped and become angry, often you've lost it - anger dulls your sense of reason and then you're not in control of the situation.

Learning techniques like breathing (three full breaths is often enough). Counting to ten doesn't quite do it for me.

Acknowledge that you are angry. Sometimes it's good to tell the other person. When you can't control your response, better to not respond - leave if necessary and come back later.

Realise that there are some situations which aren't going to get any better and which you have no control over - being stuck in a queue of traffic, for instance. The traffic couldn't care less! Put some soothing music on, write your diary (if you're really stopped for a long time), read a book, listen to an educational tape. It will take as long as it will take no matter how you are feeling!

i have found that learning what is likely to trigger anger helps emensly..knowing what triggers you off is definatly of great help.realising that others around you will learn your triggers & use them against you helps too as when you are aware you can watch others press your buttons & miraculously those buttons tend to switch off & you find you are in the position to press theirs instead..i haven't got no further than that yet,,but it means i remain calmer for longer.

Yes, 'Know Thyself' as a famous Greek said (can't remember who, though!).

Socrates

Aha!

And that's all I know about him

http://www.philosophypages.com/ph/socr.htm

http://socrates.clarke.edu/

I think he was made to drink poison at the end of the his life. Ah yes:

http://socrates.clarke.edu/aplg0190.htm

There you go!

you are right..it is sometimes best to pretend you are angry before you get to anger..i have tried this out & it works a treat.it is better to have control than to let things get out of hand & really lose your temper