“Anger is like a child—you don’t want to let them drive the car, but you also don’t want to stuff them in the trunk.”
Anger can feel overwhelming, but with the right tools, we can learn to manage it with grace:
• Breathe. Stop and take a deep breath. This creates space between you and your reaction.
• Name it. Acknowledge your feelings: “I feel angry.” “I feel tension.” Naming emotions helps diminish their intensity.
• Do it differently. Try shifting your perspective. Say, “I’m hurting. How can I be kinder to myself and those around me?”
• Inquire. Anger often carries a message. With curiosity, ask yourself, “What is my anger trying to tell me? What action do I need to take? What am I avoiding or unwilling to face?”
This practice has been a lesson for me, especially as a parent. I’ve been guilty of brushing off my children’s feelings, saying things like, “It’s not that big of a deal,” or “Why are you so upset?” But I’ve realized these moments are opportunities—to help me better understand not only my children but also myself.
Dear anger, you’re not as crazy as I thought—you’re just trying to help me see something I’ve been missing.
The Wild Gems 