Take Steps To Become Type B

Systematic Stress Management Program

Step 3: Type A & B Behavior Section

Now that you’ve identified your Type A and Type B characteristics, the next step is to begin making adjustments. Below is a list of suggestions. Complete all four steps. Check off each item as you practice it.

Step 1 – Become Aware of Type A Behaviors

*  Review theSelf-Inventory.

*  Ask a friend or relative for feedback on your Type A characteristics.

*  Look in a mirror throughout the day. Notice facial gestures indicating anger, upset, or strain.

*  Ask yourself at the end of the day, “Did I do anything which might have been hurtful to anyone?”

*  Ask yourself at the end of the day, “Did I show anyone a kind gesture or say a kind word?”

*  Each day, write down the things that make you angry. Take note of the time, place, your thoughts, and actions. Look for common or repeated items.

Step 2 – Inject These Type B Behaviors Into Your Lifestyle

*  Take a break and daydream.

*  Eat a light lunch and take time to browse in a store or walk in the park.

*  Smile at someone.

*  Allow some time to be alone each day.

*  Notice something of beauty.

*  Practice a relaxation technique.

*  Stop using obscenities.

*  Practice patience and trust.

*  Allow yourself to lose at a game.

*  Put yourself in someone else’s shoes.

*  Learn to laugh at yourself.

Step 3 – Purposefully Show Kindness

*  Accept others as they are.

*  Tell close friends or relatives that you appreciate them.

*  Buy a small gift for someone for no reason.

*  Call or write a friend or relative.

*  Plan an outing for dinner or the movies to surprise someone.

*  Say a positive, “Good Morning,” to family members and co-workers.

*  Find an opportunity to say, “Perhaps I’m wrong.” every day, even if you doubt you are.

Step 4 – Dispel the Following Myths

*  I need to be hostile to get ahead.

*  I can’t change, this is just the way I am.

*  Showing love and kindness is a sign of weakness.

*  There is a right and perfect solution to everything.

*  It is weak to act unsure or doubtful.