ANGER is an intense emotion you feel when something has gone wrong or someone has wronged you. If you feel as though some of these incidents apply to you on a regular basis, you may have anger problems. These include punching/ breaking objects, reacting quickly or violently to small problems, always/often finding yourself feeling angry and answering harshly to the teachers, fellow peers or parents.
As a student you can, however, control your anger and these are some of the ways that can help you control your it:
Recognise what triggers your anger
The first step to controlling your anger is to recognise what usually triggers your anger. If you realise this, you then need to tone/calm down. At school try by all means to be calm. It’s better to report to your teachers if one student angers you. This is important as you will avoid several consequences that come after anger. You never know because of anger you might end up fighting and destroying school property. Fighting and destroying school property is a serious offence that is not permitted at school. No one was born with anger, but it’s a habit that developed, so control this habit.
Think before you speak
It’s easy to say something you will regret. Take a few moments to collect your thoughts before saying anything. At school be careful of what you say to other students or even teachers. Make sure your words won’t offend anyone. Your words should always be constructive. Always control your tongue. Some students at school love to say vulgar words to others. Some even mock other students because of their background, or appearance or the way they talk. This is not good.
Get some exercise
Physical activities can help reduce stress that can cause you to become angry. If you feel your anger escalating, go for a walk or run or spend some time doing enjoyable physical activities. Sport relaxes the mind.
Don’t hold a grudge
Forgiveness is a powerful tool. If you allow anger and other negative feelings to crowd out positive feelings, you might find yourself swallowed by your own bitterness. Forgiving someone who angered you might help you both learn from the situation and strengthen your relationship at school. Some students will gossip about you, some will steal from you, some will laugh at you, forgive them. It is because you are on top that is why you are a topic. Forgive them and move on.
Use humour
The use of humour can reduce tension. Lightening up can help diffuse tension. You can crack a joke, or even laugh about it. This is turning lemon into lemonade. You can also practice deep breathing and release anger. Also, you can repeat calm words or phrases such as, “Take it easy”, etc. You can also play music and dance along to the music. This will reduce your anger.
Above all ask God to remove this anger in you. Pray for the spirit of gentleness or calmness.
ν Dr Manners Msongelwa/+263 771 019 392/Teacher/ Youth Coach/ Author