Venting Anger

This is the final segment in a five part series on Anger.

The ancient Roman philosopher Seneca wrote  that "The best remedy for anger is time."   I couldn't agree more.  But sometimes, the urge to express your anger is so strong that you can't resist giving into a little explosion.  

 

So always keep in mind what the poet Horace wrote two centuries ago: “Anger is a short madness.”  For a funny glimpse of someone venting their madness, check out the video below.

 

 

 

If you must give vent to your anger, use some new tools instead of destroying old tools .

 

When you just have to give into your rage, look for a prudent mode of expression.   Avoid feeding your fire; work to clear your mind as you spend your energy.

Consider physical, verbal, or artistic outlets to help you cool off.    If a troublesome lawnmower is broken beyond repair, a good thrashing may be harmless.   Obviously, you don't want to destroy something that you value (whether an object, opportunity, or relationship) to avoid future regret and having to clean up a mess later. 

Don't give into the urge to destroy whatever is nearby.    If you must pound, try a sofa (not a wall), or better yet, go for a run.   Some people love hurling ice cubes into a bathtub: they make a lovely sound as they shatter -- and they make no mess.   Try to clear your mind rather ruminate angrily as you give into your physical impulses.

Sometimes the urge to vent can be satisfied by putting your feelings into words, whether by ranting to a friend (who is uninvolved) or writing an angry letter (without mailing it).     Remember that the goal of venting is to let go of your anger rather than to fuel it.  There are some websites designed to help you express your anger online, though I'm not sure if they will help:

• Anonymous Employee: this is a site where you can write your boss a discreet email and say what you feel.   The site will send your employer an email saying it has received a compliant without revealing your identity. Your employer can then respond to the complaint using the forum.

• My Biggest Complaint:  This is a site where users post their biggest complaints about anything in the world and let others vote on them. There are tips on complaining and a panel of editors will judge if your complaint is complying to the rules before you can see it live. You can add a picture or a video to your complaint as well.

• Rippoff Report: This is a site for consumers to speak out against companies, businesses, governments, and individuals that have treated them unfairly. You can add pictures to your report and read about other consumers’ complaints as well. Unlike most of the sites in this list, this one’s serious business and their reports have been covered in many international media.  Make sure to only tell the truth; this site is carefully monitored. 

Try to sit out your short madness.    Don't feed your angry ruminations - work to gain a new perspective instead.   However, if you must vent, choose an outlet that minimizes unnecessary damage.    And once you've vented, let it go; move on as soon as possible to use your anger wisely.

 

Comments

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