Dimension 4 question responses

Question #1. Have you ever been in a situation where your perception has been affected by possible low brain function caused by stress? Describe how you felt during this situation and what steps you took to destress.

I believe that everyone has experienced stress at one time or another. However, whether that stress becomes debilitating or not will depend on the individual’s problem solving and coping skills. I have experienced very stressful times during which I felt overwhelmed and unable to concentrate and frustrated at myself and others. Taking time to exercise was one main tool that I used. Thinking through my options rather than focusing on where I may have been stuck was also helpful.

Question #2. How have you overcome negative thoughts or pessimism?

Although harder at some times than others, I have generally overcome negative thoughts by reminding myself that only I can control how I think and feel. If I choose to focus on the negative I will continue to feel stressed and negative. If I choose to search for alternatives and consider other options, I can lessen my stress by identifying solutions and problem-solving the issue.

Question #3. How can you be more present and intentional in your everyday decision making and activities?
I believe this requires practice. I believe in times of stress we return to our “default’- however we have managed stressors in the past is what we automatically turn to. If those experiences were negative then stress is increased. If we can provide ourselves with positive experiences managing stress we are more likely to remember those times and turn to those coping mechanisms. The same seems true to me regarding decision making. Practicing taking the time to think through options, identify their consequences, and selecting the best option is the way to become intentional in decision making.