©Arlene Taylor PhD
Stress and stressors represent the quintessential different strokes for different folks. For example:
 Left Frontal Lobe
- Tend to perceive the following as stressors:
- Lack of data for problem-solving
- Lack of opportunity to make decisions or to set and attain goals
- Perceived failure by others to use an inductive/deductive reasoning style
- May be shamed for perceived workaholism
|  Right Frontal Lobe
- Tend to perceive the following as stressors:
- Lack of variety
- Forced conformity to routines and rules
- Expectations for detail accuracy
- Lack of opportunity to innovate or to problem-solve intuitively
- Inability to resolve conflict in a timely manner
- May be shamed for spontaneity and humor
|
 Left Posterior Lobes
- Tend to perceive the following as stressors:
- Frequent interruptions
- Disorganization in the environment or disruption of the status quo
- Frequent or forced changes in routines
- May be shamed for excessive attention to detail, or for resistance to change
|  Right Posterior Lobes
- Tend to perceive the following as stressors:
- Lack of a good support system
- Lack of nurturing relationships
- Failure to experience spirituality
- Lack of harmony
- Presence of conflict
- May be shamed for oversensitivity, or for excessive emphasis on connection and harmony
|
Stress management strategies may be most effective when they tap into a person’s own innate giftedness. That is, some strategies will be easier to implement and will require less energy to utilize. Therefore, they will tend to be more helpful in managing perceived stressors. Here are some examples:
Left Frontal Lobe - Create, set, and pursue identified goal(s)
- Prioritize and select the best options for success
- Be in charge
- Manage willpower
- Relieve own tension by making decisions
| Right Frontal Lobe - Notice when things are changing
- Brainstorm options for success
- Trend data within the big picture
- Embrace change and be willing to take a risk
- Relieve own tension through use of humor
|
Left Posterior Lobes - Pay attention to details
- Attend to self-care
- Manage bounded shapes
- Follow routines accurately and dependably
- Relieve own tension by maintaining the status quo
| Right Posterior Lobes - Build nurturing relationships
- Access a support system
- Connect with a Higher Power
- Achieve a harmonious environment
- Relieve own tension by spending time in nature
|
