Introduction : Why Holding onto Anger is Like Drinking Poison
Ever heard the saying, “Holding onto anger is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die”?
It may sound dramatic, but it’s spot on.
Anger is a natural emotion — one that bubbles up when we feel wronged, frustrated, or misunderstood.
But holding onto it?
That’s where the real damage begins.
Think of anger like a backpack filled with rocks. The longer you carry it, the heavier it gets. Eventually, it wears you down.
The good news?
You can take it off anytime.
This blog is your roadmap to doing just that — in a way that’s practical, enjoyable, and life-changing.
Understanding Anger: Friend or Foe?
Before we let go of anger, let’s first understand it.
Anger isn’t always bad.
In fact, it serves an important purpose — it signals that something is wrong.
It can push us to take action, defend ourselves, or stand up for what’s right.
But when anger overstays its welcome, it turns into bitterness, stress, and even health problems like high blood pressure and anxiety.
The goal isn’t to suppress anger but to manage it in a way that helps us rather than hurts us.
And that begins with letting go of the unnecessary baggage.
Step 1: Identify the Root Cause of Your Anger
Not all anger is created equal.
Some of it is justified, like when someone disrespects you.
Some of it is misplaced, like when you’re stuck in traffic and furious at the world.
And then there’s the sneaky kind — the anger that builds up over time from unresolved issues.
Ask yourself :
- What exactly am I angry about?
- Is this situation truly worth my mental energy?
- Is my anger rooted in something deeper, like past trauma or insecurities?
By identifying the real source, you take the first step toward releasing it.
Step 2: Accept That Some Things Are Out of Your Control
Picture this : You’re stuck in a long grocery line, and the person ahead of you is moving at the speed of a sloth. Your blood starts to boil.
But here’s the reality — you can’t control that person’s pace.
You can’t control the weather, traffic, or someone else’s bad mood.
What you can control is how you respond.
Instead of wasting energy on things outside your control, shift your focus.
Can you use this moment to practice patience?
Can you listen to a podcast while waiting?
When you stop trying to control everything, you free yourself from unnecessary anger.
Step 3: Practice the Art of Forgiveness (Even When It Feels Impossible)
Forgiveness isn’t about excusing bad behavior; it’s about setting yourself free.
Think of it like deleting old files from your mental hard drive.
Holding onto resentment only takes up space that could be filled with joy.
Try this simple exercise :
- Write down the name of the person (or situation) you’re angry at.
- Describe what happened and how it made you feel.
- Then, write: “I choose to let this go for my own peace.”
It won’t erase the past, but it will start to loosen the grip anger has on you.
Step 4: Channel Your Anger Into Something Positive
Ever notice how some of the best art, music, and writing come from deep emotions?
Anger, when used wisely, can be a powerful motivator.
Instead of stewing in frustration, channel it into something productive :
- Go for a run or hit the gym (physical activity burns off anger like magic).
- Write a letter expressing your feelings (you don’t have to send it).
- Dive into a passion project and create something amazing.
Redirecting anger transforms it from destructive to constructive.
Step 5: Use Humor to Defuse Anger
Laughter is a secret weapon against anger.
Ever been in a heated argument and suddenly someone cracks a joke? The tension breaks instantly.
Anger and humor can’t coexist.
Next time you’re mad, ask yourself: “Will this matter in a year?”
If not, find a way to laugh about it.
Watch a comedy, share a funny meme, or simply embrace the absurdity of life.
Humor lightens the emotional load.
Step 6: Cry It Out
Sometimes, the best way to release anger is to let the tears flow.
Crying is a natural emotional release that helps reduce stress and clears emotional blockages.
When you hold back tears, anger can linger, but allowing yourself to cry can bring a sense of relief and clarity.
If you feel overwhelmed, find a private space, put on some calming music, or think about what’s frustrating you, and let the emotions come out.
You’ll likely feel much lighter afterward, as crying helps the body release tension and promotes emotional healing.
Step 7: Develop a Daily Let-Go Ritual
Just like brushing your teeth keeps cavities away, a daily practice of letting go keeps anger from building up.
Try one of these :
- Journaling: Write down what’s bothering you, then physically tear up the page as a symbol of release.
- Meditation: Even five minutes of deep breathing can reset your emotions.
- Gratitude Practice: Shift your focus from what’s wrong to what’s right.
- Music Therapy: Create a playlist of songs that instantly lift your mood.
Making this a habit helps prevent anger from taking over.
Step 8: Surround Yourself with Positivity
Ever notice how some people drain your energy while others uplift you?
Choose wisely.
Spend time with those who bring out the best in you.
Avoid toxic environments where negativity thrives.
Also, be mindful of what you consume.
Limit exposure to anger-inducing social media or news.
Instead, fill your world with positivity—books, podcasts, and uplifting conversations.
Conclusion: Free Yourself and Live Lighter
Letting go of anger isn’t about being passive or letting people walk all over you.
It’s about reclaiming your peace.
It’s about realizing that you deserve a life that isn’t weighed down by resentment.
So, the next time anger starts bubbling up, remember — you have the power to let it go.
Choose peace over bitterness.
Choose joy over grudges.
And most importantly, choose yourself.
Letting go is a process, but once you do, life becomes lighter, happier, and so much more fun.
Now, take a deep breath, smile, and set yourself free.
Ready to let go? Share your experiences in the comments below!
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