Stress tolerance requires a great deal of resilience. It is often built up through experience, over time, the ability to bounce back from difficulties or tough times that could otherwise be overwhelming. Adapting well to trauma, tragedy, threats or stress is a sign of resilience. Often described as having a thick skin, this does not indicate that stress tolerant people do not feel the stress of trauma, it means that they can be persistent and persevere.

In the workplace, stress tolerance exhibits as people who are optimistic, able to handle high pressure, and able to temper their own emotional reactions to the situation they are in. They often cherish support and interactions. They have tolerance when receiving criticism and these are viewed as a learning process and a part of life helping organisations to excel and innovate.

They have a high tolerance for ambiguity as they are adaptable and can handle the stress of change or spontaneity. Often they keep the big picture in mind and maintain balance in the face of adversity.

What does a higher score mean?

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You are stress tolerant by nature, able to take stress and high pressures at work and at home. Not prone to overreacting you can tackle a problem and bring your balanced view to any situation.

What does a lower score mean?

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You are not confident in your stress tolerance and crave peaceful and stable environments. You are likely to feel stress and anxiety if in a tough situation.

To nurture your Stress Tolerance:

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When faced with stress or conflict, temper your reactions by taking a moment to yourself and viewing the problem more holistically. Improving the view you hold of yourself can help you increase resilience, by increasing confidence and a peaceful demeanor in all situations.

Use this checklist for self-evaluation

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• Do you react negatively to stressful situations?
• Are you able to see the bigger picture?
• Are you prone to create drama out of a crisis? Or can you control your reactions?
• Do you tend to remain positive in stressful situations?
• Do you have a positive self-image?