“Anger is both an impulse and a choice. How we react to it can determine our future.”
Anger is tricky, as it is often seen as an impulse one cannot control. I often hear the phrase “He made me angry” and have used this phrase myself. Is it an impulse one cannot control, or a choice? In truth, it is both. The initial flash of anger when something happens is an impulse. If someone were to slap me in the face, I would instantly become angry. I would not have time to process if I should be angry or not. The anger would be there, ready for use.
At this point, I can choose what to do with the anger. I can use it as a fuel for a confrontation, or I can choose to let it go. Sometimes anger can be helpful and healthy. Other times it can be destructive. The decision is what is critical. I remember a time years ago a patient at a hospital slapped me in the face. My first impulse was blinding anger. I wanted to not just slap him back but punch him in the face. As he was a patient, this cannot be done. The anger was so intense I started to shake. I realized I had one choice, I needed to leave the situation before I did something foolish. I called on staff to help me and left the room once the other patients were safe. I spent the next half hour cooling off, as I was in no mood to be around anyone.
Anger will be present, it is the choice you make when angry that matters.
You can reach me at my website or call me directly at 832-559-3520 if you have any questions. Thank You!
- Internet Addiction News Weekly 02-28-24 - February 28, 2024
- Autism News Weekly 02-27-24 - February 27, 2024
- Autism News Weekly 01-22-2024 - January 24, 2024
