Suggestions for Controlling Your Anger Keep an anger log documenting when you were angry, what made you angry, and how you reacted Ascertain if there are any patterns surrounding your anger.  Analyze your anger.  Was the matter really worth becoming angry over?  Am I justified in being angry?  Is there anything I can do about the situation? Realize that anger is a choice.  You decide to become angry.  No one can make you angry.  You are in control of you. Come to the conclusion that most of the anger you feel is not worth the effort, and may be damaging to you. Understand that it does no good to become angry over situations you cannot change. Reason with yourself when you begin to be angry. Be aware of body cues which may signal that you are about to lose your temper.  Each person may have a different body cue.  Some body cues include sudden heat, clenching their jaw, butterflies in the stomach. At the first signal of anger, use calming techniques such as taking deep breaths, leaving the situation, talking with others, and examining your thoughts to determine if your thoughts are logical and rational. Practice meditation and prayer. When you continue to think angry thoughts, use thought-stopping by telling your anger to STOP.  If you are in a place where you can do this verbally, shout STOP.  If you cannot shout, you may way to write the word STOP out several times. Understand that angry thoughts lead to anger. Assert yourself.  Anger often occurs when others run over us.  No one can steal your esteem unless you give him or her permission to do so. Develop a strong support network. Exercise on a regular basis. Take vitamins. Get plenty of rest. Eat a well-balanced diet. Give others the benefit of the doubt. Laugh at yourself. Realize anger is frequently a habit.  It may take time to make changes.