We have all seen the acronym HALT. It stands for Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired. Those four feelings can have a real effect on our actions and responses to other stimuli. Originally this was used by those who were dependent on alcohol or other drugs. If one found themselves with one of these feelings they were far more likely to revert to the use of a chemical. So they learn to ask themselves, “Am I hungry, angry, lonely or tired?”.
The same feelings of hunger, anger, loneliness or being tired can also be the trigger for impatience, explosive anger, or depression. Being aware of one of those feelings as a trigger to anger or impatience is the first step to making better choices.
Personally when I am beginning to get hungry, I have less patience am quicker to be short with my comments and answers to questions. Fortunately, my wife knows that and is able to ask the question – “are you getting hungry?”. As soon as it is pointed out to me – I can think better and make better choices about how I respond. Being aware is key to increasing your patience, controlling your expression of anger, taking steps to take care of your needs.