Secrets To Finding Personal Control Over Stress

By Elizabeth Scott, M.S., About.com Guide

Updated November 17, 2007

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Optimists have been found to be healthier and happiness, as well as more successful in life. Optimists tend to minimize and de-personalize the negative events that occur in their lives while really focusing on and taking personal credit for the positive events. This resorts to increased resilience as well as greater confidence, stronger personal relationships, and other positive life events. While some people are more naturally prone to optimism than others, optimism is also a habitual thinking pattern that can be learned and cultivated. Other thinking styles that affect people’s stress levels (and the stress levels of those around us) include Type A personality features and perfectionistic tendencies. Here you can test your tendency toward Optimism, Type A Personality and Perfectionism, and find tools to change your habitual thinking style if necessary.

Previous

• Introduction: Mental Stress Relief and Personality Factors
• Thought Pattterns: Optimism, Perfectionism, and Type A Personality
• Healthy Physical Habits for Stress Relief
• Quick Coping Skills To Contribute To Stress Relief
• How An Internal Locus Of Control Can Lead To Stress Relief

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