

Control Your Bad Temper:
Stop Overreacting to Stress
It's time to control your bad temper! Many people have a huge habit of overreacting to life's stressors.
As we all know, a bad temper can lead to temper tantrums. It is one thing to see a child throwing a tantrum in the middle of a store, but another to see an adult doing it.
Our reactions to what happens to us or around us greatly effects our ability to cope with life's stressors. Believe it or not, when a person overreacts to stress with a nasty temper, they only increase the amount of stress they feel. Not only do they increase how much stress they feel emotionally, but they also physically increase their negative stress hormones in the body.
We all have a choice on how we will react to stress. I know for some this may be hard to believe, especially since these feelings come so easily but I assure that it is absolutely true. If you automatically overreact to stress, then you are dealing with a dangerous, self-defeating habit.
I have heard so many people say that these emotional outbursts give them a release and makes them feel better. But Scientifically, it is proven to do the opposite. Although it may temporarily give them a sense of relief, they are unknowingly reinforcing an emotional behavior that increases stress and can even lead to anxiety.
The Internal Over-Reactor:
Some people overreact internally. Their bad tempers boil inside as they repeat to themselves all the things that upset them. They dwell on these things to the fullest extent and to the point where it effects their quality of life and their own happiness.
The External Over-Reactor:
Some people overreact externally. They have a tendency to be verbally abusive and may even react violently by slamming doors, throwing things, stomping feet, yelling and sometimes even hitting something or someone.
Both types of over-reactors function in ways that are unhealthy and unproductive. They are both increasing negative stress hormones in the body which ultimately leads to illness.
So how do you stop this unhealthy, self-destructive habit? You use your self-will and your self-talk!!
You need to get into the habit of taking notice of your bad tempers. Once you realize you are reacting negatively, it is time to ask yourself some very important questions.
Ask Yourself These Questions
1. On a scale 1-10, how big is your problem? (10 being the worst)
2. How important is this problem to your life?
3. Does it deserve the reaction you are giving it?
4. Will it matter tomorrow? a month from now? or maybe next year?
5. Can this problem be solved?
6. If no solution can be found, are you willing to accept what you cannot change and move on?
How you talk to yourself matters a great deal. Be true to yourself!
It is important to create new habits when reacting to stress. You can do this by making the choice to use your negative energy in a positive ways.
Physical exercise helps greatly by burning up excess adrenaline. It also will give your mind time to think about the situation that is bothering you so that you are more able to react appropriately.
If there is a reason why you cannot exercise, go back to stress management tips and use some of the other suggestions there.
Remember, isometric exercises also help with burning up adrenaline. So even if you are at work sitting at your desk, there are better options for you when it comes to dealing with stress.