Vol. 5, No. 2 • May 2001

Things you can say to yourself to keep a lid on your anger

Examples of calming thoughts to say to yourself when you are angry.

1. I'll use my sense of humor and make a joke of this.
2. He would like me to get angry. Well, I'm going to disappoint him.
3. Losing my temper means trouble for me because . . .
4. I can't always expect people to act the way I want them to.
5. It's not worth it to get angry.
6. I won't make a big deal about it.
7. I'm not going to let this get to me.
8. I don't need to prove myself.
9. As long as I keep cool, I'm in control.
10. I'll grow up, not blow up.
11. I won't get in a fight.
12. I won't be a fool—I'll keep cool.
13. I won't be mean.
14. My muscles feel tight. Time to relax.
15. I'm under control. I can handle this.
16. There is absolutely no reason to get mad.

 

Copyright � 2001 Jordan Institute for Families