By Donna Dunning
This is the sixth post in a nine part series describing typical stress response patterns linked to personality type preferences.
The information in these posts shows you how to assess your stress levels, identify your stressors, and build resilience to stress. When you understand your stress response you can learn to note the first signs of stress, implement changes to build resilience, and avoid the unpleasant experience of stress taking over.
For more information read the series introductory post Personality Type and Building Resilience to Stress.
First signs of stress for Assimilators:
- Focusing single-mindedly and intensely on detail after detail
- Needing to know more facts than usual before initiating action
- A lack of judgment regarding the relevance of information
When stress takes over:
- Have difficulty organizing facts and managing details
- Make impulsive actions
- Engage in catastrophic thinking; imaging worst possible scenarios
Common stressors:
- Sudden change, ineffective or unclear procedures
- Being asked to perform without adequate time to prepare
- Vague instructions, standards, goals, or priorities
Deal with stress by:
- Thinking through the implications and consequences of your situation
- Validating your competence and worth
- Arranging to spend time alone in a comfortable setting
- Setting priorities and completing immediate tasks
The seventh post in this series explores the typical stress pattern for people who have INTJ and INFJ preferences.
The material in this series has been adapted from In the Grip by Naomi Quenk. This is a useful booklet for anyone who wants to understand his or her stress response in more detail.
The photos accompanying this series are “signs of stress”, everyday cautions and warnings we see in the world around us.
Not sure of your personality type preferences? Visit the 8 Ways of Working page.
Do you have preferences for ISTJ or ISFJ and want more information about your type? Check out the Assimilator tag.