Turning Stress into Growth : Pain into Power
HOW CAN YOU LEVERAGE STRESS?
That "Ugh" Feeling.
Stress is that really uncomfortable "ugh" feeling, sort of paralyzing. Though, that’s completely normal as biologically, that indicates our fight or flight responses, which is a crucial part of our survival. Though as generations change and as we evolve, we’re not in our caves anymore worrying about predators so that response can sometimes really be a nuisance. That which instead of helping us, it can make us retreat to our shell, our little comfort zone. What if I tell you that the uncomfortable feeling might just be your own intuition pushing you for growth? Even though, you have probably heard this a hundred times...This is a petition to go outside of your comfort zone!
Embracing Stressful Opportunities.
Most people are wired to run away from stress and change is one of this uncomfortable feeling, should I say the "p" word? It might seem like a crazy thing to say, but I aim to look out for stressful opportunities even more (non-fatal of course). I often strive to push my own boundaries by trying out stuffs that usually gives me the icky feelings in the past. It’s more helpful to turn that discomfort into something more productive. So next time you're interested in any stranger, go up and strike a conversation! Even better, invite more stress by engaging with a random group of people when you're alone, or simply sign up for any public speaking clubs! We won’t ever be able to run away from stress. Stress, change and pain are integral parts of life and will always be present. So instead of going monk mode and locking yourself up in the woods trying to escape the matrix and all the discomfort bs life throws, what if you turn stress into a superpower? Sort of a fuel, stronger than caffeine!
Understanding Stress.
There are ways to relieve stress, which includes awareness and acknowledgment of it. Is your stress necessary or completely unnecessary? Look at your reality, the present moment. Stress and Anxiety is often an effect of overthinking and the anticipation of the future. Look, this is a good thing, especially if that thing is about your goal/s. It means you are working towards something that is highly important for you; it’s sort of your brain or intuition telling you to move and get your act together, do something! So instead of ruminating and allowing that stress to paralyze you into procrastination and anxiety which makes it even worse. You should use that as a fuel, the motivation to get going and work towards your goals.
Choose Your Fighter.
Well, you also have the other option of ruminating and letting stress get the best out of you. Although, what will it get you? Think of the pros and cons here. When faced with a stressful situation, we tend to ruminate and anticipate the worst, which is a normal part of our brain function. What are the incentives of thinking of the worst and taking stress from a bad perspective? Do the pros outweigh the cons? Well normally, when faced with stress, one might ruminate, cry, procrastinate, or even cope in unhealthy ways and be impulsive just to solve or even runaway from that stressful feeling. Stress also makes us feel like we’re not in control, a victim of our reality, turning into anxiety, hopelessness and depression. Now let’s try the opposite. What are the incentives of thinking of the best-case scenario (if it's anxiety-induced stress) the mindset of just saying “it is what it is, now what?”. You got denied for the job that you want, well sit on that stressful feeling for a bit but don't get too deep into the thoughts, will it kill you? "It is what it is, now what?". Thinking optimistically when presented with stress will also alert the brain that there’s no real danger, leading to more productive cognitive thinking, which will help find a solution to the stress. So...would you rather have a "we're so back" or a "it's so over" moment? Choose your fighter.
Mindfulness.
Furthermore, mindfulness exercises also greatly helps when faced with stress. Instead of anticipating the worst, strive and anticipate the best-case scenario, stay present and mindful. Try a breathing exercise called—the box breathing technique: breathing in for 4 seconds, holding for 4 seconds, and breathing out for 4 seconds. Focus on your breathing, and once you notice the thoughts or the monkey chatter coming back (which is normal), try to give it no judgment and get back on track with your breathing. Do this for at least 2 minutes 7 times a day. Google has even implemented mindfulness practices as a major initiative for their employees, so this is serious stuff.
Brain's Superpower.
"The Brain That Changes Itself" by Norman Doidge, explores neuroplasticity and shares the very fascinating superpower of our brain, it has the ability to adapt, reorganize and form new neural connections throughout our life. Debunking the belief that the brain is a fixed state. So, with enough repetition and practice, you will be able to reframe your mindset, have better thoughts, and overall a better mental health, now who doesn't want that? Be able to turn stress into an asset and build a better, more efficient mindset, character, and life. This is backed-up by science y'all.
Resistance will be a part of this new mindset shift but don't worry, that's completely normal. You don't get good at something without practice right? With enough discipline and consistency, you will somehow be able to be more mindful and positive. You're currently reading this so I know you already have what it takes to live a better life for yourself.
Remember, you're allowed to be nervous but still act with courage. Taking stress as an opportunity for growth is the cheat code in life that will help you find the strengths that you have always had within and unlock your full potential. It can help you be your best self and help you grow into whatever person you want to become.
"The greatest weapon against stress is our ability to choose one thought over another." -William James
Comments
Post a Comment