Adversity

“Sometimes we think that if we hang on to our anger and bad attitude, we show that it’s not ok – but real strength is smiling in adversity.” - unknown

Life can be tough – there is no doubt. It’s only as tough as we make it. We have choices on how we view the rough times in life. It is easy to complain. It takes real strength to let things go or see the good in a situation. If you are angry at someone or a situation, try letting go. It drains your energy and makes you ineffective at solving problems. In other words, take the high road and make wonderful things happen.

Affirmation – say: “I will let go of anger and I will forgive so that I may become stronger.”

Conflict

There are many ways to handle situations that make you angry.  You can react or respond.  Reacting is usually destructive.  We either fight or retreat into a shell only to let things fester.  A better way is to think and respond.  Stop and decided do I need address this now?  How important is this issue?  Sometimes it's better to wait but don't avoid - either within yourself or with the one that you have conflict.  Waiting will help you respond instead of react.

Affirmation ---

Say: I will respond to conflict with a level head!

Acknowledge anger and use it wisely

It's ok to be angry...as a matter of fact - it's important to live out our anger. It can be a motivator, a balance maker, and even a peace maker. Anger helps us define our values and set boundaries. It's how we behave in our anger that can be harmful. Turn it inward and it can become depression - which can create a pain inside us that no one sees. Turn it outward with the purpose if hurting and it becomes destructive. Use your anger wisely to help you see how to make things better with yourself, others and the world.

Forgiveness doesn't mean forget

Sometimes we think that hanging on to our anger lets everyone know it's not OK.  However, smiling in adversity is the most powerful thing you can do.

Be at peace with anger

It's ok to be angry - it's what you do with the anger that matters. Anger helps us. With it we can set boundaries and define our values. Acting out in passive aggressive behavior does nothing to honor this. Be direct and honest about what makes you angry and target the value not the "thing." Use it to recognize that something is not OK. However, if you gossip, communicate with sarcasm or turn off listening, you will gain nothing. Take a moment to be at peace with what makes you angry and learn from it.

Smile in Adversity

“Sometimes we think that if we hang on to our anger and bad attitude, we show that it’s not ok – but real strength is smiling in adversity.” - unknown. If you are angry at someone today, try letting go. It drains your energy and makes you ineffective at solving problems. In other words, take the high road and make wonderful things happen.

Honor Anger

If you are angry, it is valid. Someone has broken a rule in your eyes. How you behave in this anger is what will destroy those around you. Always take time to be in the moment without giving your anger voice or fist. Find a rational place to discuss the events that make you angry. You'll find that people will listen better to someone that has thought things through.