Based on the self-assessments I scored high on strategic planning 15/16 and Instrumental support seeking 30/32. These scores weren’t surprising to me at all being that I know what it takes to reach certain goals and I constantly plan things out to ensure things in my life stay on track. Every Sunday night I start my week by first laying out my clothes for the week and checking my schedule to ensure nothing goes unnoticed. Life throws lemons at me somedays being a wife, working 2 jobs and being 12 hours away from my family and friends. Therefore, planning helps me cope with my anxiety a lot.

Mature coping skills help you deal with life during difficult times in a healthy and productive way. If you don’t know how to deal with stressful situations when you feel under pressure, then things may get worse and out of hand. The correct strategy is to just take a deep breath and think about the situation. Being aware of one’s coping strategies can help in reducing stress which can lead to heart problems and or depression.

Strategic planning and self-care I believe go hand in hand. I have a method of planning when it comes to school and work, I know what must be done on certain days. I’m able to get things done without falling short in any areas. Being that I’m not stressed, I’m less prone to sickness, tiredness, and everything else that comes when you don’t have a plan. With emotional intelligence having a clear plan and goals in mind can help me stay focused and manage my emotions better.

Harper, J. (2023).  Psychology in the real world, 2nd ed.  Soomo Learning. 

Healthy Coping: 24 Mechanisms & Skills For Positive Coping (positivepsychology.com)

Remember to respond to two peers while being respectful of and sensitive to their viewpoints. Consider advancing the discussion in the following ways:

• Post an article, video, or visual to reinforce a peer’s idea or challenge them to see their point from a different perspective.
• Engage in conversation with your peers around coping skills that are similar to or different from your own. Consider asking a question to reach a better understanding.