HomeBlogInterview Question: What Relaxes You During Stressful Times?
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Interview Question: What Relaxes You During Stressful Times?

07 September 2023
Relaxation amidst stress. Yellow background with black and white silhouette of a person sitting cross-legged, surrounded by swirling lines depicting calmness and serenity.
Question AspectsDescriptionWhy is it Important
Stress ManagementThe ability to handle stress smoothly and efficiently.Stress management is crucial in maintaining productivity and morale in high-pressure environments.
Relaxation TechniquesPersonal approaches that help in unwinding and relieving stress.Effective relaxation techniques demonstrate emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and problem-solving skills.
Work-Life BalanceBalancing professional responsibilities and personal interests or activities.Candidates that maintain a healthy work-life balance can better contribute to a positive work environment.
Interview LevelThe stage of the interview process where this question may be asked.Understanding how to answer this question effectively can increase chances of success in interviews, particularly for mid to senior-level roles.
ResilienceThe ability to bounce back from adversity or stress.Resilient individuals are more likely to perform well under pressure and maintain a positive attitude.
Self-Care HabitsPersonal routines that promote physical, emotional, and mental well-being.Caring for one's self reduces the risk of burnout and enhances overall performance.
Expected AnswersReal strategies or techniques, showing self awareness, good coping mechanisms and proactiveness.Genuine and effective answers show the interviewer you're well-equipped to handle stress.
Exercise and Physical ActivityAn effective way to manage stress; could be yoga, running, or swimming.Exercise has physiological benefits, such as the release of endorphins, which improves mood and provides stress relief.
Mindfulness and MeditationPractice of being present in the moment, reducing anxiety, and increasing focus.Mindfulness can help improve mental well-being, positivity, and productivity.
Considerations when AnsweringBeing honest, tailoring answer to job, and showing self-awareness.These considerations ensure you deliver a respectful, genuine, and impactful answer.

In today's fast-paced world, stress has become an integral part of our lives. Whether it's work pressure, personal relationships, or financial worries, stress affects us all. During such overwhelming times, it becomes crucial to find ways to relax and unwind. Employers understand the importance of hiring individuals who can manage stress effectively, making it a popular question in job interviews. In this article, we will explore why this interview question is asked, the purpose behind it, which interview level it is usually asked at, what kind of answer is expected from candidates, and possible answers to consider.

Why is this interview question asked: What Relaxes You During Stressful Times?

Employers want to gauge how well candidates handle stress and what strategies they employ to relax during challenging times. This question helps them assess the emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and problem-solving skills of the candidate.

By asking about relaxation techniques, employers can determine if the candidate is capable of maintaining a healthy work-life balance and whether they possess effective coping mechanisms.

The purpose of the question:

The main purpose of this question is to understand how candidates manage stress and if they have developed positive habits to deal with challenging situations.

Employers want to hire individuals who can thrive in high-pressure environments and contribute to the overall well-being of the team. By asking this question, interviewers aim to gather insights into the candidate's resilience, self-care habits, and their ability to maintain productivity during stressful periods.

At what interview level is it asked?

This question can be asked at various interview levels, depending on the nature of the job and the importance of stress management within the role. It is particularly common for mid to senior-level positions that require leadership, decision-making, and adaptability skills.



Related Course: Online Leadership Course

Related Course: Free Online Stress Management Course

Stress management is crucial for individuals in managerial roles as they need to navigate challenges while maintaining team morale. However, candidates at any level can be asked this question to assess their overall well-being and stress management skills.

What kind of answer is expected from the candidate?

Employers expect candidates to provide authentic and genuinely effective ways they relax during stressful times. They are looking for answers that demonstrate self-awareness, healthy coping mechanisms, and a proactive approach towards stress management.

Candidates should avoid generic or cliché responses and instead provide specific examples of techniques they implement to unwind. Interviewers are often interested in hearing about activities that show a work-life balance, such as hobbies, exercise, or mindfulness practices.

Possible answers to consider:

When answering this question, candidates should focus on techniques that are not only effective but also practical and achievable. Here are some possible answers to consider:

  1. Exercise and physical activity: Engaging in regular exercise releases endorphins, improves mood, and provides a healthy outlet for stress. Candidates can mention activities they enjoy, such as yoga, running, or swimming, and explain how it helps them relax.

  2. Mindfulness and meditation: Practicing mindfulness and meditation techniques can help individuals stay present, reduce anxiety, and increase focus. Candidates can describe how they incorporate mindfulness into their daily routine, whether it's through guided meditation apps or mindful breathing exercises.

  3. Creative or artistic outlets: Engaging in creative activities like painting, playing a musical instrument, or writing can be highly therapeutic. Candidates can discuss how they find solace in their hobbies and how they use these activities to unwind and channel their emotions.

  4. Spending time in nature: Being surrounded by nature has a calming effect on the mind and body. Candidates can share experiences of going for walks, spending time at the beach, or taking hikes in the mountains to find peace and relaxation.

  5. Quality time with loved ones: Building and maintaining a strong support system is crucial during stressful times. Candidates can highlight how they prioritize spending quality time with family and friends, engaging in activities that bring them joy and provide emotional support.

Considerations when answering:

When answering this question, candidates should keep a few key considerations in mind:

  1. Be honest and authentic: Interviewers can easily detect rehearsed or insincere answers. It's important to provide genuine responses that reflect your personal experiences and preferences.

  2. Tailor your answer to the job: Think about the specific demands of the role and how your relaxation techniques align with them. For example, if the job requires strong problem-solving skills, highlighting how puzzles and brain teasers help you relax might be relevant.

  3. Showcase self-awareness: Reflect on your own stress triggers and make sure your answer reflects an understanding of what works specifically for you. This demonstrates self-awareness and maturity in managing your own well-being.

In a world filled with stressors, it is essential to prioritize self-care and find effective ways to relax during difficult times. Employers recognize the importance of stress management skills and often ask candidates about their relaxation techniques during job interviews.

By being authentic, providing specific examples, and showcasing self-awareness, candidates can impress interviewers and demonstrate their ability to handle stress effectively.

Remember that self-care is not only crucial for personal well-being but also contributes to your overall productivity and success in both personal and professional spheres. So, find what relaxes you and make it a priority in your life.

Activities or Hobbies for Stress Relief

ActivityDescriptionBenefits
YogaPracticing physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditationReduces stress, promotes relaxation, and improves overall well-being
GardeningPlanting and caring for plants and flowersRelieves stress, enhances mood, and promotes mindfulness
PaintingCreating art using various paints and techniquesBoosts creativity, promotes self-expression, and reduces anxiety
ReadingEngaging in a written text for pleasure or knowledgeCalms the mind, reduces stress, and enhances cognitive abilities
Listening to MusicEnjoying different genres of musicRelaxes the mind, uplifts mood, and reduces stress
WalkingTaking a leisurely stroll outdoorsRelieves stress, improves cardiovascular health, and enhances mood

Natural Remedies for Stress Reduction

RemedyDescriptionEffectiveness
ExerciseEngaging in physical activity to reduce stress levelsHigh
Deep breathingFocusing on slow and deep breaths to relax the body and mindMedium
MeditationPracticing mindfulness to calm the mind and reduce stressHigh
AromatherapyUsing essential oils to induce relaxation and decrease stressLow
Herbal teasDrinking teas like chamomile or lavender to soothe and relaxMedium
YogaCombining physical poses, breathing techniques, and meditation for stress reductionHigh

Strategies for Psychological Relaxation

StrategyDescriptionBenefits
Deep BreathingTaking slow, deep breaths to relax the body and calm the mind.Reduces stress, lowers blood pressure, and promotes calmness.
Progressive Muscle RelaxationSystematically tensing and releasing different muscle groups to promote relaxation.Reduces muscle tension, promotes relaxation, and improves sleep.
MeditationFocusing the mind on a particular object, thought, or activity to achieve mental clarity and emotional calmness.Reduces anxiety, improves self-awareness, and enhances overall well-being.
Guided ImageryUsing visualization techniques to create mental images that promote relaxation and positive emotions.Reduces stress, enhances mood, and fosters a sense of peace and tranquility.
MindfulnessPaying deliberate attention to the present moment without judgment to cultivate a state of heightened awareness and acceptance.Reduces anxiety, improves focus and concentration, and promotes emotional well-being.
ExerciseEngaging in physical activity to release tension, boost endorphins, and improve mood.Reduces stress, improves sleep, and enhances overall mental and physical health.

Similar interview questions:

  1. Can you share any specific techniques or strategies you utilize to unwind when facing stressful situations?

  2. Have you discovered any hobbies or activities that effectively help you relax in times of stress?

  3. In your experience, which relaxation methods have proven most effective for alleviating stress?

  4. Are there any particular practices or routines you engage in to cultivate a sense of calmness during challenging times?

  5. Could you describe any calming experiences or moments you have encountered while dealing with stress?

  6. Have you come across any external factors, such as nature or music, that have a noticeable relaxing effect on you during stressful periods?

  7. Can you specify any tools or resources you rely on to unwind and recharge when you're feeling overwhelmed?

  8. Which self-care activities or rituals bring you the most relief amidst high levels of stress?

  9. Is there anyone or anything in your life that consistently eases your stress levels when you are going through challenging times?

  10. Would you be open to sharing any personal anecdotes or stories where you successfully found relaxation in the midst of a stressful situation?

Stress Management, The ability to handle stress smoothly and efficiently, Stress management is crucial in maintaining productivity and morale in high-pressure environments, Relaxation Techniques, Personal approaches that help in unwinding and relieving stress, Effective relaxation techniques demonstrate emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and problem-solving skills, Work-Life Balance, Balancing professional responsibilities and personal interests or activities, Candidates that maintain a healthy work-life balance can better contribute to a positive work environment, Interview Level, The stage of the interview process where this question may be asked, Understanding how to answer this question effectively can increase chances of success in interviews, particularly for mid to senior-level roles, Resilience, The ability to bounce back from adversity or stress, Resilient individuals are more likely to perform well under pressure and maintain a positive attitude, Self-Care Habits, Personal routines that promote physical, emotional, and mental well-being, Caring for one's self reduces the risk of burnout and enhances overall performance, Expected Answers, Real strategies or techniques, showing self awareness, good coping mechanisms and proactiveness, Genuine and effective answers show the interviewer you're well-equipped to handle stress, Exercise and Physical Activity, An effective way to manage stress; could be yoga, running, or swimming, Exercise has physiological benefits, such as the release of endorphins, which improves mood and provides stress relief, Mindfulness and Meditation, Practice of being present in the moment, reducing anxiety, and increasing focus, Mindfulness can help improve mental well-being, positivity, and productivity, Considerations when Answering, Being honest, tailoring answer to job, and showing self-awareness, These considerations ensure you deliver a respectful, genuine, and impactful answer
What relaxes you during stressful times? what relaxes you during stressful times what relaxes you during stressful times?
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Amara Weiss
Institute Secretary, Author

I am Amara Weiss and for many years I have worked in the field of education, specifically in the area of technology. I firmly believe that technology is a powerful tool that can help educators achieve their goals and improve student outcomes. That is why I currently work with IIENSTITU, an organization that supports more than 2 million students worldwide. In my role, I strive to contribute to its global growth and help educators make the most of available technologies.

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