My primary coping strategy is prevention and I feel this is 100%
correct. The easiest way to deal with stressful situations is to avoid
them if possible. This is not always possible, but often if I do run into
stressful issues I have thought about them beforehand and have
rehearsed different ways to approach the problem. When I am
presented with a new project I start talking out loud and try to
anticipate every problem. This can lead to some negative feedback
from team members. Then I have to deal with the stress of explaining
to them that I'm not being negative, just trying to identify the pitfalls
beforehand to strategize possible solutions.
If you know how you cope with stress you can intentionally start the
process as soon as you identify a stressor. This allows you to deal
with the stress in a shorter amount of time, eliminating some of the
negative effects stress has on you. Less stress leads to a happier,
healthier life. Utilizing your coping strategies can help you to
eliminate the highs and lows of the emotional spectrum also leading
to a better quality of life.
One place where knowing your coping strategy can pay off is carrier
connections. Every job has its unique issues that cause stress. Being
aware of the best way for you to deal with stress allows you to easier
work through the issues that may arise, making one more positive and
productive in the workplace. This improves you at home as well as at
work because it can help in not bringing work issues home to the
family.
