A Flash of Red Can Sharpen Focus

When you need to make a tough decision, just think about the last time you were angry.

Sounds counterintuitive, but a little anger can actually help you choose better, a recent study suggests. Just don't work yourself up into a rage. That state still sends all reason out the window.

Get Lightly Steamed, Think Straight
Researchers recently put college coeds in an angry state and then asked them to read a couple of arguments about students' spending habits. One argument was weak, the other strong. Students were better able to spot the stronger argument when they were a little peeved. Why? Anger may trigger adaptive behaviors -- the kind of behaviors that allow people to adjust to circumstances and make productive, constructive choices. (Find out why the older you are, the harder it is to get riled up.)

But Don't Lose It
Fleeting moments of anger may give you focus, but chronic tension and hostility will take a toll on your health -- possibly increasing your risk of heart disease. Are you a hothead? Try the YOU: Staying Young Anger Management Plan.

Thinking straight while seeing red: the influence of anger on information processing. Moons, W. G., Mackie, D. M., Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin 2007 May 1: 33(5);706-720.