Anger is normal
Air strong emotions and hurt feelings out in the open
Anger is a normal, healthy emotion, and its expression can be a tremendous release. Rather than bottling up anger, or expressing it indirectly through slammed doors or sarcastic remarks, it is far more constructive to air strong emotions and hurt feelings out in the open.
When two people can listen to each other in anger and work through a conflict, their relationship is stretched and strengthened. Rupture and reconciliation are the cornerstones of relational resiliency.
Even if you understand the importance of supporting another’s self-esteem, and try to consciously use effective communication techniques, it is still easy to say things you wish you had not said in the heat of the moment. Here are some ideas for expressing your strong feelings before they erupt into anger.
Calm down before you respond
To deal effectively with a conflict, your anger must be under control. Calming down or cooling off is a key step in managing conflict. Some ways to get anger under control include walking away and/or removing yourself from the situation.
