Stress Telic Paratelic Motivational Modes

Stress Telic and Paratelic Motivational Modes.

Stress Telic and Paratelic Motivational Modes

Stress or pressure is defined as the drive to correct undesirable or conflicting thoughts and behavior through achievement. It is clearly presented in reverse psychology wherein the stress gives the person feelings of guilt, fear and uncertainty. The person then strives hard or is motivated to put in efforts and develop his abilities in order to overcome the negative feelings. Some may consider the motivation or behavior as subconscious.

Stress is present in the Cognitive Dissonance Theory wherein the person tries to balance two conflicting thoughts or behaviors by adjusting or changing his perspective or modifying his behavior. It is only when the thoughts or behavior do not collide that stress is relieved. Every day, all people undergo stress, which is relatively healthy for growth and development. However, if stress becomes too much for the person to bear, psychological, emotional and physical trauma may result.

The Two Types of Stress

1. Eustress. This type of stress is defined as constructive as it motivates the person to achieve more in order to relieve and overcome the negative feelings and conflicting thoughts.
2. Distress. This type of stress is defined as destructive as it promotes feelings of guilt, uncertainty and failure in the person. The person believes that the goal is impossible.

Sources of Stress

1. External stressors. The environment is filled with stressors that can give us negative feelings. Heavy traffic, bad weather, being burdened by work, arguments with friends and many others will decrease your performance and level of functioning. These external elements are sometimes beyond our control, which is why we feel bad or lose motivation when unexpected challenges occur.
2. Internal stressors. Internal stressors are subjective. The way we interpret the external stress will determine our behavior and actions. All people have different interpretations and experiences, which is why they also experience and try to overcome stress in various ways.

The Three Stress-Solvers

• Develop self-determination. As an individual, you should view stress as a normal part of a healthy life. Without obstacles and challenges that seem insurmountable at times, you will not be motivated to grow. Use stress as a way for you to gauge your strengths and weaknesses, then set goals on how to overcome your weak areas.
• Be involved with the environment. You are part of the environment that provides you with the stimulus to respond. Thus, you should also try to solve stress by finding helpful resources and guides such as other people, worthwhile activities and relaxing places.
• Be optimistic. Always keep in mind that all types of stress can be solved and all goals are attainable. The goals you set upon yourself have to be specific and realistic so that you will be able to change your initial negative feelings into positive ones as you succeed.

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