Neutral Anger
We are often led to believe that some emotions are good and that others are bad. Anger for instance is considered a negative response. However, anger can be an emotion that displays itself when we feel passionate about something that is dismissed, taken advantage of or completely rejected. It can be a spark emitted from the friction between our values and beliefs vs the actions others and events outside our control. Therefore, is it bad to feel this much passion for the things you believe in?
So called negative emotions are simply emotions. Just like happiness or joy, anger and sadness are an internal process of reaction within a human being. Happiness can be seen as good, primarily because it is not particularly scary or dangerous. However anger can become dangerous when out of control. If we imagine for a moment fire and anger are the same thing. We can choose to see all the good fire can do. Fire can make change happen. Changes such as the process of cooking food, turning water into steam and provide warmth when we are cold. It can help change metal into functional and decorative objects that are valuable around the world. But when out of control and not cared for correctly, fire can destroy a forest, our homes and can hurt or even kill us.
Anger is simply an emotion. Just like fire is simply an element. What you decide to do with it and how you care for it is the difference. The choices you make and the control you have over it will ultimately be the deciding factor between whether the actions and outcomes are considered good or bad.
Damian Reeve
Optimal Well-being and Performance Coach