For 30 days, GPS for the Soul and meQuilibrium are providing you tips on how to live a healthier, happier and stress-free life. See the previous stress tips here.
You'd think that taking risks makes you more stressed -- not less. But stress by other names is also excitement, motivation, energy, pressure and more. And just the right amount will help you do amazing things. When you take a small risk, you consciously let yourself experience stress. You give yourself a chance to reframe all those symptoms of stress that otherwise, well, stress you out.
Heart pounding? That's your body doing what it must to prepare you for whatever it is in front of you, such as a presentation to your team. The jitters? Your body again has come to your rescue, heightening your senses so that you're both aware and energized. Take advantage of that energy to accomplish the challenge ahead. The urge to call your mom? That's your body releasing hormones to help you seek the help you need when under stress. The stress of that one small risk you take will get you on your way toward the grit, purpose and resilience you need to do all the things you want to do.
Read more on how to think of stress as good.
--Posted by Lindsay Holmes