Stress Factors and Energy Thieves
People react differently to stress depending on their personality type (color), and the intensity of their reaction is proportional to how personally important the situation is to them.
THE IDEA
What Can You Do About the Fact That People Don’t Get Pissed Off in the Same Way?
With these simple observations in mind, you can quickly form an idea of what type of person you’re dealing with. Pay attention to how he reacts under stress and pressure.
But, at the same time, remember that no system is perfect. These are only indications, and they apply only to individual colors. Be sides, as I wrote previously, different situations can give rise to completely different forms of conduct. Generally speaking, the more important a particular thing is for a certain person, the stronger his reaction will be.
See for yourself. If someone insults your neighbor, you might think it was unfair. But you don’t make a big scene out of it. However, if someone were to insult your husband or wife, you would be absolutely furious. That’s just one example. There are many levels and degrees of difference to reflect on.
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Stress Factors and Energy Thieves
When to use it
Managers can tailor feedback to employees based on how personally invested they are in their work.
In negotiations, identify the other party's priorities by observing which topics they react to strongly.
In personal relationships, recognize that arguments may escalate over things that feel personally important, not because of the topic itself.
When designing stress management programs, consider individual differences in what triggers strong reactions.
FROM THEORY TO EVERYDAY LIFE
In practice
Insult to a loved one vs. a stranger
If someone insults your neighbor, you might think it unfair but not react strongly. If they insult your spouse, you become furious. This shows how importance amplifies reaction.
Workplace pressure
A minor criticism from a colleague may not upset you, but a serious critique from your boss about a project you deeply care about can trigger a strong stress response.
A MOMENT TO REFLECT
Put it to work.
Think of a recent time you reacted strongly to a situation. What made it personally important to you?
How can you use this observation to better understand the reactions of others around you?
What situations in your life are likely to trigger the strongest emotional responses, and why?
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION
Source texts
- Surrounded By Idiots (Thomas Erikson)