PEACE IN RESOURCES
Stress Brings Stuff Out The Best and the Worst in People By Diana Dentinger
Stress is so subjective. For example some people are stressed by having too much to do while others are stressed by not having enough. Some by loud noises in the house from music and TV and others by silence. If we let it, stress can get the best of us and the way we act change... meaning we react! Instead of being a problem solver, we become part of the problem. Our approach to what is around us becomes less effective. People tend to react in one of three ways: The first is becoming angry and controlling. This means you want things how you want them. Period. You step up frustrated to run the show, to feel you have power over the situation and and to make everyone obey. Does this sound like anyone you know? What are the side effects of this reaction mode? Sometimes you are faced with the other person having the same reaction as you and in a second moods ignite and fighting starts. Neither of you wants to lose so it continues in a power play in which both actually lose!
What is funny about stress and reactions is that other people can actually predict our reactions and it “seems” like they do things on purpose to get our goat. It is not always consciously so. It is just a habit really. It is like a game. If you are the “power” kind then set up your expectations with those around you before stress gets to you. Be kind and firm at the same time. Be clear about what you need and open to their input. Often being this angry type could “push” the other person give in or give up. Then you have either an indecisive person or one who is uncooperative...not because they are, but because they are afraid.
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