[smokeberly]

I keep a string of those little power beads I bought back about a decade ago when they were super trendy. I was in junior high, so of course had a huge color-coordinated collection. Now they come in useful.

When I feel myself getting flustered (usually because of frustration, but anger is similar for me), I take off the bracelet and do a round on the beads. I do a quick reminder to myself with each bead that an enemy--whether a person or situation--is a precious opportunity to practice patience. My friends, my hobbies, the stuff that makes me feel peaceful and happy, those things are great. But they don't give me a chance to practice the skills I need.

So telling myself, "Take the opportunity. Do something with it," is helpful. I've also made it into a joke, which has actually helped more than anything else. When something causes a response of aggravation in me, a sentence will come out like, "Ah. Well. I see my boss has decided to present me with lots of opportunities today. How nice." My coworkers know what I mean, and we all laugh, but I haven't really griped. I've vented my frustration in a way that reminds me of where my priorities should be.

I've found that massively useful. Maybe it'd be some good to you? Your mileage may vary, but I thought I'd suggest it since it was useful for me.