Tuesday, May 20, 2025
We all experience stress from time to time, and many of us share similar symptoms when we are stressed. Some of these shared symptoms, according to the Cleveland Clinic, are physical, emotional, and mental. They include exhaustion, headaches, high blood pressure, digestive problems, chest pain, muscle tension, a weakened immune system, anxiety, irritability, depression, panic attacks, and sadness.
But how do these symptoms show up according to your Shape? In this post, I will focus on the Box.
The Box can be calm under pressure, but as the pressure intensifies, so do the Box's traits, crossing the thin line that separates "healthy traits" and "unhealthy traits." In other words, the same traits that are positive can turn negative when under stress.
The Box, known for their meticulous nature, may suddenly turn into a nit-picker when under pressure. The more pressure, the more nit-picking. In addition, the Box, when under pressure, can become even more resistant to change. In times with less stress, the Box can balance such traits with their positive characteristics. Under stress, these traits, along with others like working alone or procrastinating, will emerge and magnify.
How to Identify the Box Under Stress
1. Disorganization. This is the first real giveaway for the Box who is usually highly organized.
2. Disorientation. If the Box seems “confused” about what’s going on, this is a good indicator of stress.
3. Nervousness. Boxes are typically solid and stable individuals.
4. Forgetfulness. This is a good sign for a Box under stress because it is very rare in this Shape.
5. Indecision. Although the Box is not known as a quick decision maker, under stress they will have difficulty with even the simplest, everyday decisions.
6. Excessiveness. If they overdo things usually done in moderation - make note. Also, take note if they are overly negative about things.
7. Changing mind. Once Boxes make a decision, they rarely renege on it without a great deal of consideration and reflection. If your Box is suddenly reversing decisions at a moment’s notice, something is wrong.
Boxes Feel Most Comfortable and Least Stressed When…
1. Everything is on schedule and according to plan.
2. Everyone is in the right place, at the right time, doing the right job.
3. Everyone knows what is expected of them and is willing to do it.
4. There are no surprises, no crises, no chaos.
5. There is a minimum of emotional people around them or with whom they must interact.
6. The home front is smooth and predictable; there are established routines and financial security.
If you are a Box, remember to take a step back and see the big picture. Remind yourself that not everything requires the same amount of detailed precision or seriousness in nature.
If you are in the role of supporting a Box, or if you work or live with a Box, you will need an extra dose of patience and understanding. Look beyond the crinkled eyebrows or lack of humor. Instead, offer your support by asking for a list of priorities for how you can help. Getting them to share a list of priorities may actually help relieve some of their stress.
If you want to learn more about other PsychoGeometrics resources, including our online DIY modules, upcoming certification online classes, or how we can customize a team-building workshop for your group, feel free to reach out to me directly. Our team truly loves helping people leverage their Shapes for effective and influential communication!
Susan Hite, CEO, PsychoGeometrics, The Science of Behavior - The Art of Communication