Time helps you cool down and think more clearly.  When used well, time helps us raise our IQ back to normal.

To use time properly, take a few minutes away from whatever is going on.  Take some physical space, and then give yourself the time you need to calm yourself down before you reengage.  Don’t act right away when you are angry.  That’s the wrong time to make a decision.

Of course, time does not mean forever.  don’t run away from the problem or disappear for a couple days.  If you are angry, don’t act then, but don’t stuff your anger either.  Take some time (usually 10 minutes to an hour–depending on how early you catch it) and then address it.  Don’t hold on to the problem.

Of course, if you are at a 9 it is gong to take you more time to calm down than if you are at a 2.  That’s another benefit to catching your anger early.

Excerpt take from “Take Control of Your Anger: A Step-by-Step Guide to Anger Management by Michael Ballard, MA, NCC, LPC