By Donna Dunning

This is the ninth 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 Enhancers:

• Becoming overly sensitive to feedback
• Reacting more personally to what others say and do
• Feeling the weight of others’ needs and demands

When stress takes over:

• Begin to judge yourself and others as incompetent
• Harshly criticize self and others
• Take hasty action in attempt to control the situation

Common stressors:

• Conforming to unacceptable values or procedures
• Interacting with people who are overly impersonal, critical or demanding
• Rigid structures, routines, or deadlines

Deal with stress by:

• Moving outside of the stressful situation to regroup
• Engaging in pleasant, self-care activities
• Renewing and refocusing on personal needs and values
• Sharing your experiences with caring people you trust

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 ISFP or INFP and want more information about your type? Check out the Enhancer tag.