Researchers (Nicholls et al., 2006) collaborated to investigate the coping strategies used by professional rugby players. Broadly speaking, there are two types of coping strategies, problem-focused and emotion-focused. A problem-focused coping strategy focuses on practical solutions to a stress-inducing situation. An emotion-focused coping strategy focuses on reducing the negative emotions caused by the stress-inducing situation – emotions such as frustration or sadness.
In a 28-day diary study, eight elite rugby players recorded their stressors, coping responses, and the effectiveness of their coping strategies. It was found that the most frequently cited stressors were injury concerns, mental mistakes, and physical mistakes, while the most effective coping strategies were problem-focused, such as by focusing on the task or increasing effort.
Like rugby players, employees may also use problem-focused coping strategies before important events, such as big meetings or presentations. Considering that professional athletes focus on the task and increase effort when the heat is on, perhaps people at work should too.
Nicholls, A. R., Holt, N. L., Polman, R. C. J., & Bloomfield, J. (2006). Stressors, Coping, and Coping Effectiveness Among Professional Rugby Union Players. The Sport Psychologist, 20(3), 314–329.
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