How to Not Yell When You Get Angry

Anger is a normal, healthy human emotion. But it is not healthy to express anger by yelling at your family, your co-workers or your friends. When your volume rises with your anger, try these simple steps to control your temper and stop yelling.

Instructions

1. Sit or stand up straight and inhale slowly and deeply from your diaphragm. Feel your rib cage expand and your stomach push outward. Then let your breath out slowly, through your nose if possible. Feel yourself relax.

2. Count to 10. The Mayo Clinic recommends taking a short time-out.

3. Whisper. People instinctively shy away from loud noises, so speaking in a low, soft voice allows you to express yourself without scaring anyone away.

4. Laugh, or make a joke. A little humor goes a long way in a tense situation, but avoid sarcasm.

5. If you start to yell, step away from the problem. If you are angry because your teenager did not clean his room, shut the door and walk away. If your co-worker is late to an important meeting, take a short walk before talking to him.

Tips & Warnings

• For serious anger issues, consider an anger-management course.

References

• Mayo Clinic: Anger-Management Tips
• American Psyhcological Association: Controlling Anger Before It Controls You
• Parents Magazine: 10 Ways to Stop Yelling