Anger Management Tips for the Holiday Season

Many people spend the holiday season with extended family. While the holidays are meant to be a time to enjoy your family, spending time with extended family, some of whom you may not have seen for a while, can bring back past resentments and grievances, which can lead to anger. You may find that online anger management courses are an excellent resource, particularly if you struggle with anger management issues.

So how can you prepare for managing anger during this time of year so that you’re involved in the next family feud?

1.     Start with being careful with the amount of alcohol you consume. Drinking often contributes to conflict and aggression. If you’re in control, you can avoid many of your triggers.

2. Budget. Decide how much money you can afford to spend this holiday season and stick to it. Excess spending is one of the triggers taught in online anger management courses that may get you angrier.

3. Do not over-schedule yourself. Manage your time by planning and set aside specific days or times for each task to be done. Then give yourself even more extra time.

4. You may also need to adjust your expectations. Things may unfold differently from how you have planned them. You are only with your family for a short time, so try to relax.

5. Avoid being pulled into unnecessary arguments. Just don’t get involved. Who cares who opens gifts first? You don’t need to be involved in minor family spats.