One response to stress that is effective is called selective awareness. Selective awareness is learning to perceive life changes and other stressors as less distressing by focusing on the positive aspects and de-emphasizing the negative ones

One response to stress that is effective is called selective awareness. Selective awareness is learning to perceive life changes and other stressors as less distressing by focusing on the positive aspects and de-emphasizing the negative ones. Unfortunately, we have been taught to be critical rather than supportive and to look at the bad more than the good. To learn how to focus on positive aspects of situations, rephrase the following situations so that the focus is upon their positive components:

EXAMPLE:

Waiting in a long line to attend a movie: I waited in a long line to see a movie, but I got to spend that time catching up with my friends and enjoying the nice weather outside. 

 

1. Being stuck in heavy traffic:

 

 

1. Giving a presentation to a large group of people:

 

1. Being rejected from a job:

 

 

1. Not having many friends:

 

Right now, there are situations that are causing you stress. You may not like where you live or the work you’re doing. Some of these stressors can be changed and some cannot. You now know that you can become selectively aware of their positive components while de-emphasizing their negative features. List 4 stressors below, along with the positive aspects of each stressor:

Stressors and Their Positive Aspects

1. Stressor:

Positive Aspect:

 

2. Stressor:

Positive Aspect:

 

3. Stressor:

Positive Aspect:

 

4. Stressor:

Positive Aspect: