Good stress can actually inspire a person to achieve a goal, become more confident or stronger physically…if it is approached in a sensible manner. As in the weight lifter example. A reasonable goal in a reasonable period of time will bring on achievement with little or no stress involved.
The difference in dealing with good and bad stress is often ones own attitude. When given a challenge do you approach it with the thought, "I can do this? I will do this?" Or do you cringe and think, "Oh, I'm not good enough,' without even trying.
Low self-esteem can place a person in a very stressful situation. When one feels depleted or anxious or overly excited they may lean toward the bad stress practices of doing too much to fast or obsessing over possibilities that may never happen. As example; Learning to operate a new kind of machine at work. You can look at the machine and swear you will never be able to operate it. Or, you can read the manual, watch another person who already knows this job and you can learn how to operate this machine. Believe in yourself and you will achieve your goal.
There are certain kinds of stressful situation in which we have no control. Accidents, sudden illnesses or death of a loved one are prime examples. However, we can slow the stress levels in these situations simply by remaining calm and enduring step by forward step.
No two people are the same in how they react to or handle any situation. Some people actively seek out adrenalin inducing activities through various sports in their spare time. Other peoples' occupations involve such stressful situations they seek quiet and peaceful conditions to restore themselves.
There are both good and bad stress in all walks of life. How one deals with the stress, how one achieves and moves forward without becoming physically or mentally impaired is determined by how one approaches each stressful situation. It is important that you don't create your own bad stress out of unreasonable goals (such as the example of the writer) or through low self esteem.
Find positive ways to deal with the stress.
- Relax Play a game with your kids, watch a movie, go for a walk or spend time alone in private thought or meditation.
- Sleep 7 to 8 hours every night Give your body time to rejuvenate itself.
- Eat right A diet high in fruits and vegetables and proteins, whole grains spread through six small meals during the day.
- Become active Take up a hobby or get involved in a sport or community activity, visit friends. Do something that takes you away from the source of your stress
- Get professional help if you need it. See your physician or go to counseling, in private or with a group of people. Learn how others manage stress
