Stress triggers and how to deal with stress better according to your Myers-Briggs personality type | MBTIonline

April is stress awareness month, and this month is the perfect time to put together your personal stress action plan.

Whether it’s work stress or stress at home, you’re likely experiencing more stress than you’re aware of. That’s where a stress action plan can be really helpful. What is a stress action plan? It’s an individual plan unique to yourself and your MBTI personality type that identifies your specific stress triggers, what behaviors you’re likely to exhibit when you’re stressed, and your own tried and true stress remedies.

You can use this infographic to give your brainstorming a headstart on what likely stresses you out according to your personality type and recommended stress remedies, but your personality is just part of what makes you, you. So take some time for your own personal development and for your well-being, and reflect on what comes to mind for you as you put together your stress action plan.

By paying attention to your stress triggers, you can not only better manage stress when it happens, but you can also predict what situations might cause you the most stress (and potentially avoid them or reduce the time you spend there). Then you can plan to incorporate tactics, behaviors and time for the things that reduce stress.

Want to take the MBTI assessment before your stress levels get out of hand? Take the official, research-backed Myers-Briggs Type Indicator personality assessment here.

What causes stress by Myers-Briggs personality type

Stress reduction tips and techniques

There are multiple ways that you can reduce stress. A few of the stress remedies listed below work for all personality types, and some are more effective for certain people than others.

As you read through these stress reducers, think about times in your life when you were stressed, and what sort of things helped you feel more calm.

The first way to reduce stress that helps every one of the 16 MBTI types is to move around.

"Exercise relaxes tense muscles that become tight and rigid when you experience stress. It delivers oxygen to the brain, vital organs, and muscles immediately and produces endorphins that soothe your mind and body," says Kathleen Hall, chief executive of The Stress Institute in Atlanta, Georgia.

What sort of things count as moving around? Consider going for a walk. If you prefer Introversion, it may stress you less to go on a walk alone (or with a furry friend) than with company. Those with preferences for Introversion are energized by spending time alone, and lots of socializing with family and friends and parties can take a toll on their well-being. Even a short 5-minute walk down the street and back has positive benefits. If you prefer Extraversion, why not gather a few people together for a game of frisbee, a walk, or even an impromptu dance party in the kitchen? Extraverts are energized by spending time with others, so if stress is looming in your horizon, consider an active get together.

Want to learn more about how to deal with stress? Check out the Managing Stress resource page.