Learn not to explode: how managers can control their anger and stress

Leading people is much like raising children. Frustration, anger, shouting or overly emotional behaviour: all of these are highly unconstructive approaches, which neither help your subordinates grow nor resolve the issues that triggered your anger. Quite the contrary: if you get angry with your team or come across as agitated, you risk losing their respect, damaging mutual trust, and potentially decreasing your team's overall efficiency. Do you sometimes struggle to manage stress in your managerial role and find yourself exploding? Here are some tips to help you avoid such outbursts and create a healthier, more supportive work environment for your employees.

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Identify what triggers your anger

According to INC.com, the first step is to identify what triggers your anger. What types of situations provoke frustration in you? Why does this happen, and what is at the core of the issue that causes you to take it so personally?

Find a way to eliminate triggers

Once you identify what provokes an angry reaction, consider how you might eliminate these triggers. For example, you might delegate the responsibility for certain types of situations to someone else on your team. Or you could adjust the way your team operates so as to prevent such situations arising at all. Alternatively, find a way to reframe the issue so that you do not take it so personally.

Always pause before reacting

The next time you feel rising anger, don't respond immediately. Instead, schedule a meeting with your team later in the day, giving yourself at least an hour or even a few hours' interval between the incident and your response. You’ll likely find that by then your behaviour will be much more measured.

Seek professional advice

If you struggle with stress and emotional outbursts, it may be beneficial to speak with a professional. A coach, psychologist or therapist can help you understand your triggers, and establish a system for responding to them in a more constructive way.



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Article source Inc.com - a U.S. magazine and web focused on starting businesses
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