How To Avoid Overreacting?

We all overreact sometimes.While some of us clearly get angry when it’s not warranted; overreaction can occur with any emotion.But what can you do about it?

Believe it or not, some forms of overreacting are so subtle that people aren’t aware that it’s an issue for them.Overreacting can include anything from a burst of sorrowful tears or a chip on your shoulder to committing a criminal offense.

Acting out aggressively by hitting a wall may damage a person’s hand; but unnecessarily bearing the weight of negative emotions does even more damage.

Overreacting can also damage your relationships with people by interfering with your communication skills.If you walk around feeling hurt, resentful or bitter, those around you will definitely feel the sting.

Here are some suggestions for you to stop overreacting.

Identify Your Triggers-

Most of the time, we have specific triggers that cause us to overreact. We all have a button and every once in a while, someone knows exactly how to push it. Preparation is the best way to prevent an overreaction, so think about the things that really get to you the most. If you know them, you can learn to be more in control of yourself when those times arise.

Don’t neglect the basics-

Lack of sleep, going too long without food or water, lack of recreation and play can leave your mind and body vulnerable to exaggerated responses.For many of us (myself included), it’s easy to let our own basic self-care take a back seat to the noble cause of taking care of others. Ironically, it is your loved ones who are most likely to end up on the receiving end of your emotional overreactions. Prioritizing your own self-care will help minimize overreactions.

Breathe before responding-

Deep breathing slows down your fight and allows you to calm your nervous system and choose a more thoughtful and productive response. Try taking a deep breath next time someone cuts you off in traffic. Overreacting while driving was the most commonly cited scenario for overreacting.

Thought Stopping-

For many people, the easiest way to stop overreacting is to take a mental time out.That means inhale deeply and stop yourself “mid-thought.”Initially, you may not be able to catch the very first thought, or even the second, but try to be more mindful and stop yourself as soon as you can.

Note- The pictures used in the article are google images.