CHAPTER 3

The Benefits of Anger in the Workplace

MOST OF THE TIME, when we think of anger, we think of its negative effects, such as those covered in Chapter 2. That’s why anger is often seen as the forbidden emotion. People who express anger are considered to be “irrational,” and “out of control,” two of the worst things that can be said about a person. This is particularly true in organizations, where people are supposed to leave their emotions at the workplace door. What many people don’t realize—or never consider—is that anger in itself is neither positive nor negative. If managed effectively, anger can be a positive and productive emotion.

The Positive Side of Anger

As the exercise on the following pages illustrates, it’s easier to determine ...

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