Anger management

We have all had moments of anger at work. It’s impossible not to. Someone steals your lunch, that last part of your weld just won’t go in (I know this one all too well) or maybe someone just rubs you the wrong way. These are legitimate reasons to be irritated. How you handle your emotions could be a serious safety hazard though.

If you don’t deal with your anger properly, it can consume you and if this happens your mind is not focused on the task at hand. Anytime our mind wanders, we put ourselves at serious risk. Is being mad for whatever reason worth an injury? I don’t think so. I know for some that anger turns to aggression. Even if not directed at another person, can cause some pretty significant hazards. Think about it… You mess up what you’re working on, you get mad, throw a tool to relieve some aggression, not at anyone but it bounces of the ground and hits your partner. Now they are injured and mad and your work is still messed up. Aggression never solves the problem. Not to mention the toll anger has on your body. Getting worked up over everything can lead to anxiety, headaches, stomach aches, insomnia, depression, high blood pressure, stroke and heartache. Nothing is really worth those side effects. So how do you change it?

First know that anger is a normal, healthy emotion, when dealt with properly. When you start to feel anger at work, try and remove yourself from the situation. This could be a quick walk to the wash cart. Even a little bit of time by yourself can help you cool off. If you need to, try some deep breathing and counting backwards. Think about why you’re angry and a productive way to solve it. Try and look at the big picture and remember, letting your anger get the best of you, can be a safety hazard to yourself. When you’re not at work try working out or running to burn off some steam. To stay calm try yoga or meditation. If you feel like your anger is really out of control, see a counselor and work it out.

Focusing on your anger or acting out in anger will never solve the problem, only create more. So do what works for you to stay calm and safe on site.