Stress Isn’t the Problem. It’s the Response.
Society pictures stress as a monster that creeps towards you as it takes away your strength bit by bit. But, is this all there is to stress? No, there are so many things about stress that many of us do not understand, so let’s discuss it.
Stress is defined as the following:
The non-specific mental or physical result of any demand upon the body.
Note, that it is any demand. Our bodies want to stay at a comfortable level which can be defined scientifically with the term homeostasis. For example, when we exercise, the equilibrium shifts causing stress to our body. But, what happens long-term as we maintain a fitness regime? The definition of homeostasis that our body acclimatises to changes. In layman’s terms, we get stronger.
Let’s be real though. Stress can be harmful. In fact, chronic stress caused by financial, emotional, social, and physical factors will be detrimental to health. However, we know that some cope with stress better than others. Why is that?
Take for example the photo above. Each of these steps are challenges in your life. Do you focus on the number of steps in front of you? Or, do you focus on the individual steps you take to reach the top.
In a study in 2009 by Kubzansky et al. explored the idea that how we reduce the negative effects of stress is correlated (not caused) by our coping strategies. According to their study, personality impacts how we deal with our situations. That’s not to say that being a cheerful happy person makes you better at dealing with stress. The person who focuses on what they can do to deal with one challenge at a time comes out on top.
To become a person that you truly respect, you need to develop a positive coping strategy. Take on the mindset that stress is not bad. For example, consider the picture of the legos laid at your feet. Each piece is a problem to be solved but, look at the sheer number of issues we are facing. Daunting right?
It is daunting and it is okay to accept that the challenges in front of you are indeed challenges worth recognising. However, stressful it is, some challenges can’t be avoided. Therefore, isn’t it simpler to think of each challenge as an opportunity?
Change the way you think of stress. Stress isn’t bad with a different mindset. Situations that can be solved, will be solved. Situations that can’t be solved, can’t be solved. Accept it, but do what you can and let go of the things you can’t control.
Write a comment if you have a personal coping strategy you developed over the years to handle stress effectively. Share your insight and knowledge. You never know, it might help someone get by on yet another rainy day.
