How to Control Your Temper

Do you find yourself fuming when someone cuts you off in traffic? Does your blood pressure go through the roof when your child refuses to cooperate? Anger is a normal and even healthy emotion — but it's important to deal with it in a positive way. Uncontrolled anger can take a toll on both your health and your relationships. There are some steps helping you to control your temper.

• Remember that the reward for patience is happiness.
• Realize that things can be handled well at all times; it's just a matter of what kind of attitude you put into it. Take deep breaths.
• Get away from situations where your anger might get the better of you.
• Realize that no one likes to be around people who get angry easily, and act abusive. The only way you can change the situation is by starting with yourself.
•  Be considerate of others, and ultimately, yourself. 
•  If you are angry and you are standing, sit down, if you are sitting then lie down.
• Take a timeout. Counting to 10 isn't just for kids. Before reacting to a tense situation, take a few moments to breathe deeply and count to 10. Slowing down can help defuse your temper. If necessary, take a break from the person or situation until your frustration subsides a bit.
• Think about the good things that person has done for you. What bad have you done to them? Chances are, you've done at least something to them to make them resentful towards you. Make sure you have a clear conscience-then speak.
• Temper can ruin anybody's life. When your eyes are opened it might be too late, so try to control your anger and follow the above steps. It will definitely get you away from tension.
• Saying hurtful things could be very risky and dangerous and it can hurt someone's heart so please stay calm when you feel hyper.
• If you still feel the anger and have to let it out, tear old newspapers into shreds. This is a popular method to let the steam out.
• Get some exercise. Physical activity can provide an outlet for your emotions, especially if you're about to erupt. If you feel your anger escalating, go for a brisk walk or run, or spend some time doing other favorite physical activities. Physical activity stimulates various brain chemicals that can leave you feeling happier and more relaxed than you were before you worked out.
• Think before you speak.In the heat of the moment, it's easy to say something you'll later regret. Take a few moments to collect your thoughts before saying anything — and allow others involved in the situation to do the same.