Why Do I Want To Break Things When I’m Angry?

Why Do I Want To Break Things When Im Angry

Breaking things when angry is like throwing a boomerang – it always comes back to hurt you.

Ever smashed something in a fit of rage? I’ve been there, and let me tell you, it’s not worth it.

Breaking stuff might feel good for a hot second, but it’s bad news for your health and safety.

Picture this: You’re fuming at your boss, so you karate chop your coffee table. Or you’re steaming mad at your partner, so you hurl a chair across the room like you’re auditioning for WWE.

Sounds dramatic, right? But here’s the kicker – it’s downright dangerous. You could hurt yourself, damage property, or worse, injure someone else.

Trust me, I’ve learned the hard way that there are better ways to deal with anger. Stick with me, and I’ll show you how to keep your cool without breaking the bank (or your stuff).

Anger Management 101: Keeping Your Cool

How To Prevent Angry Outbursts

Ready to become a Zen master? Here’s your cheat sheet for taming that temper:

  1. Breathe like a dragon. Deep breathing is your secret weapon. It’s like hitting the pause button on your anger.
  2. Spill the beans. Talk it out. Sometimes, just saying why you’re mad can take the edge off.
  3. Put on your thinking cap. There’s always another way to fix things without going all Hulk-smash.
  4. Become a mantra master. Repeat after me: “I will not hit/throw/break.” It’s like a spell to calm your inner storm.
  5. Phone a friend. Having a buddy nearby can help you keep your cool. For tips on building solid relationships, check out Rediscovering Joy: Revitalizing Mental Health in Retirees.
  6. Move it or lose it. Exercise is like a magic potion for stress. It’ll zap those angry vibes right out of you.
  7. Embrace your inner tree-hugger. Nature’s got healing powers. Take a walk outside and feel your worries melt away.
  8. Om your way to calm. Meditation isn’t just for monks. It’s a great way to clear your mind and find your chill.
  9. Hang with your squad. Quality time with loved ones can melt stress like butter on hot toast.
  10. Let it all out. Sometimes, you just need to vent. Don’t bottle it up – let those feelings fly (with words, not fists).
  11. Stay sober. Booze and drugs are like gasoline on the fire of anger. Steer clear.
  12. Watch out for pointy things. Sharp objects and anger don’t mix. It’s a recipe for disaster.
  13. Don’t play with fire. Or any hot surfaces. Burns are no fun, trust me.
  14. Keep your hands busy. Fidget with something safe. It’s like a distraction for your anger.
  15. Eat your greens (and proteins). Good food = good mood. Fill up on healthy stuff to keep your temper in check.
  16. Drink up, buttercup. Water is nature’s chill pill. Stay hydrated to stay calm.
  17. Find your happy place. Whether it’s yoga, painting, or juggling, find what helps you unwind.
  18. Rock out. Music can soothe the savage beast… or the angry human.
  19. Laugh it off. A good chuckle can turn your frown upside down.
  20. Catch some Z’s. Sleep is like a reset button for your mood. Don’t skimp on it.
  21. Breathe like a champ. Slow, deep breaths are your secret weapon against stress.
  22. Flash those pearly whites. Smiling, even when you don’t feel like it, can trick your brain into feeling better.
  23. Be a do-gooder. Volunteering gives you a positive outlet and helps you connect with others.
  24. LOL your way to calm. Funny movies are like a mental massage. They’ll help you relax and forget your troubles.
  25. Put pen to paper. Writing down your thoughts can help you make sense of your feelings and stop the angry spiral.

The Science of Smashing: Why We Want to Break Stuff

Why Do I Want To Break Things When I'm Angry?

Ever wonder why you feel like going all Godzilla on your surroundings when you’re mad? Here’s the lowdown:

  1. Your brain goes into fight mode. It pumps out adrenaline, making you feel like a bull seeing red. For more on the body’s anger response, check out Why do I shake when I’m mad? Understanding the science behind anger tremors.
  2. You get tunnel vision. All you can see is the bad stuff, like a horse with blinders on.
  3. Your impulse control takes a vacation. You might do things you’ll regret faster than you can say “oops”.
  4. Your body’s stress alarm goes off. Cortisol floods your system, making you feel like a grumpy bear woken from hibernation.
  5. Your thinking brain takes a backseat. Logic? Problem-solving? They’ve left the building, Elvis-style.

Anger Release: The Safe Way

Feeling steamed? Here are some ways to let off that pressure without causing a disaster:

  1. Road rage? Instead of yelling, try counting red cars. It’s a great distraction.
  2. Wanna smash? Go play some basketball instead. You’ll feel like a champ, not a chump.
  3. Bad day at work? Write a letter to your boss… then burn it (safely). It’s cathartic, trust me.
  4. Missed out on an award? Call the winner and congratulate them. It’s like instant karma for your mood.
  5. Can’t find your keys? Take a deep breath and retrace your steps. Getting mad won’t make them magically appear.
  6. Parking ticket got you down? Pay it and move on. It’s not worth the stress of fighting it.
  7. Partner running late? Use the time to do something you enjoy. It’s like a mini-vacation.
  8. Friend always in trouble? Be supportive, not judgmental. They’re probably feeling bad enough already.
  9. Kids acting up? Take a timeout… for yourself. A few minutes of calm can work wonders.
  10. Lost a game? Put down the controller and go for a walk. Fresh air beats broken electronics any day.

The Bottom Line on Breaking Things

Here’s the deal: Anger isn’t always the bad guy. Sometimes it’s just life giving you a wake-up call.

But breaking stuff? That’s a lose-lose situation. Instead, try these anger management tips or chat with a pro. They’re like personal trainers for your emotions.

Want to learn more about keeping your cool? Check out How to email a therapist for the first time. It could be your first step to a calmer, happier you.

Remember, you’ve got the power to control your anger. Don’t let it control you. Stay cool, my friends!

About our Author Michelle Landeros, LMFT license# 115130
Author: Michelle Landeros, LMFT

Michelle Landeros is a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT). She is passionate about helping individuals, couples and families thrive.