Irritation
Irritation or anger is a fairly common feeling in today’s fast–paced and stressful times. Whether we’re stuck in traffic and waiting, someone has cut in front of us in line at the store, or we’ve missed watching a game, each of us has experienced this feeling over even the smallest things. But should we lose control of ourselves? Does an event depend on us to the point that we then get angry or regret it? Do we have any control over it?
“The best way to get revenge on your enemy is not to be like them.“
Marcus Aurelius
Stoicism teaches us that anger is the most destructive and harmful of all emotions – it forces us to stop thinking clearly, clouds our judgment, and often leads to irreversible actions and consequences that we later regret. Our first goal is not to resolve the situation, but to regain control.
What you can do:
Don't react right away
Breathe mindfully
Keep moving
Look at the situation objectively
1.Don’t react right away – your first impulse is always wrong. Silence is not a sign of weakness, but rather a sign of strength. (Be careful of irreversible consequences)
2.Breathe consciously. Take a deep breath and exhale slowly. Repeat this several times. This signals to your body that there is no real danger.
3.Get some distance if you can. Change your surroundings; go for a walk. Movement helps the body release tension.
4.Take an objective look at the situation and ask yourself:
- „Was that directed at me?“
- „Am I overreacting right now?“
- „Will it matter an hour from now?“
It is very important to remember that anger itself is more dangerous than what triggers it, and that our reaction is more intense than the event itself.
“The consequences of anger are far more severe than its causes.“
Marcus Aurelius
„If left unrestrained, anger often causes us more harm than the very insult that caused it.“
Seneca (De Ira)
And let’s not forget: