Breaking the Chain of Displaced Anger

Anger is contagious. I learned this firsthand when an undue encounter with a relative left me simmering, and I unknowingly passed the flame onto my son.

When I arrived home, my son's mischievous behavior triggered a reaction in me—far stronger than it should have been. My misplaced anger led to his overreaction, which, as I later discovered, stemmed from an argument with a classmate earlier that day.

It was as if my relative’s anger had "charged" me, like a smartphone plugged into a power source. Without realizing it, I carried that charged emotional energy, ready to be unleashed at the first opportunity.

This is a common pattern, even in the workplace:

• A frustrated manager lashes out at a subordinate, who takes that frustration home to their family.
• A stressed customer berates a waiter, who then snaps at a colleague.
• A CEO reprimanded by shareholders redirects their frustration at a banker, who takes it out on a loved one.

Anger, when displaced, doesn’t disappear—it ripples outward, often hurting those who had nothing to do with its origin.

With the holidays approaching—a time for love, joy, and forgiveness—it’s the perfect moment to reflect. Let’s break the cycle:

• Pause before reacting.
• Address frustrations directly and constructively.
• Have the courage to resolve conflicts at their source.

This holiday season, give yourself and others the gift of emotional clarity. Break the chain, and help foster a more peaceful, joyful environment for all.

Wishing you a relaxing and joyful holiday,

Philippos