Emotional Decision Making

Emotions are powerful. If left unchecked, they can dominate how we live and how we interact with others. The choices we make, the actions we take and the perceptions we have can so easily be governed by our emotional state. We all should endeavour to better understand our emotions because from this knowledge, recognition and understanding comes greater control and better decision making.

Take anger for instance. It is extremely powerful and can take on many forms. For some, they feel angry much of the time or struggle to stop thinking about something that has made them feel mad. Others get angry less often, but when they do it’s an explosion of Krakatoan proportions. Whatever form it takes on, uncontrolled anger can negatively affect physical health, damage relationships and often leaves people regretting the poor decisions their anger has influenced. Emotions like anger only serve to cloud a person’s judgement.

Our College community is one that promotes mutual respect, self-discipline and a sense of inclusiveness and compassion for others. We continually strive to set the bar high and as such there is no place in our community for decisions driven by emotions like anger.

Strategies to manage anger

Self-Check
It can be difficult to make good decisions when you give in to emotion. Try to identify warning signs that you are getting annoyed and take steps to avoid that situation to prevent things from escalating.

Don’t dwell
There is no point going back over the scenario and focusing on the problem. Work towards a solution instead.

Change the way you think
When you are angry you will see the worst in everything. Replace the negative thoughts. Instead of thinking “everything is ruined”, tell yourself “this is frustrating but it’s not the end of the world”. Use logic to reframe your thinking. Anger is often irrational. The world is not out to get you, so avoid latching on to words like never and always.

Relax
Control your breathing by taking long, slow breaths from your stomach rather than your chest. Visualise a relaxing experience from your memory. Walk away from the situation and think of a fond memory.  

Improve your communication
Students will often jump to conclusions when they are angry. They will assume details and often be very wrong in these assumptions. Stop and think before reacting. Plan how you will respond to avoid regretting your decision later.

Recognise triggers
Give some thought to what makes you mad. Avoid those situations.

Craig Cullen

Assistant Principal Middle Years