Why we’re so f***ing angry at work – and how to stop
Aug 22, 2023
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Mike Fisher, founder of the British Association of Anger Management, and Liz Fosslien, bestselling co-author, discuss workplace anger, its impact, and effective management techniques. They share personal experiences, explore the root causes of anger in the workplace, and provide practical solutions for addressing and redirecting this powerful emotion.
Anger in the workplace can stem from small issues or significant problems like harassment or unfair decisions, and addressing the root causes is crucial to prevent its negative impacts on mental health and relationships.
Channeling anger into positive outcomes involves recognizing the triggers, understanding the frustrations, and using its energy to drive positive change by communicating calmly and seeking resolution, while also maintaining emotional and physical distance if necessary.
Deep dives
Understanding the underlying causes of anger in the workplace
Anger in the workplace can stem from seemingly small issues that serve as the final straw in a larger unaddressed issue. It can also arise from significant problems like harassment or unfair decisions. Emotions, including anger, have traditionally been seen as unprofessional, leading many to suppress or ignore them. However, it is crucial to identify the root causes of anger, as it can negatively impact mental health and relationships. Anger management expert Mike Fisher emphasizes that anger doesn't go away on its own and must be addressed to prevent the situation from worsening.
Turning workplace frustration into positive action
Anger in the workplace can be channeled into positive outcomes. It starts with recognizing the violation or frustration that triggered the anger and then giving oneself permission to feel it. Understanding why the frustration exists can lead to improvements in processes or career paths. Instead of lashing out or suppressing anger, individuals can use its energy to fuel motivation and drive positive change. Communicating calmly and asking for more information when faced with an angry colleague can also help in resolving conflicts effectively.
Managing anger and dealing with angry colleagues
When confronted with an angry colleague, it is essential to remain calm and avoid verbally or physically lashing out. Taking a step back, allowing time to calm down, and making rational decisions can prevent regrettable actions or hurtful words. Building empathy and attempting to understand the other person's perspective is also crucial. If necessary, maintaining emotional and physical distance can protect oneself until a resolution is reached. However, in some cases, it may be necessary to seek a different work environment if the anger and its consequences persist.
New data from Gallup shows that almost one in five Brits say they feel angry at work – a sharp jump from last year and comfortably higher than our European counterparts. So how can we stop getting wound up in the office – and how should we deal with colleagues who fly into a rage? Host Isabel Berwick speaks to Mike Fisher, founder and director of the British Association of Anger Management, about how workplace fury works. Isabel also hears from Liz Fosslien, the bestselling co-author and illustrator of two books about how to embrace emotions at work: No Hard Feelings and Big Feelings.
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