Sources of stress do not automatically cause stress-related problems. Moderators of stress, which can include our personal strengths, might mean that we can have a healthier and more productive life in spite of life's challenges, or maybe even because of them. As the text mentions, Suzanne Kobasa and others have studied people who have successfully handled much stress without becoming ill. Kobasa and others have listed some of the strengths for moderating stress, which have been paraphrased below to illustrate the concept of hardiness, and to give us a chance to evaluate ourselves. For each strength, write one change that you could realistically make for personal improvement, and how you would make that change.

1. Having a clear sense of goals, values, capabilities, and their importance.

2. Active involvement to promote change.

3. Finding personal meaning in stressful life events.

4. Having a sense of control.

5. Having a good support system.

6. Seeking stimulation.

7. Having a stable and even disposition.

8. Having a Type B personality.

Obviously you are the only one who can answer these questions.