The Dual Faces of Stress

We often talk about stress like it’s a bad thing.

I mean, much of our content revolves around managing and reducing it, right?

But there’s a good side to stress that we often overlook. Yes, you heard that right!

Stress, like a coin, has two sides: Eustress and Distress.

Understanding them is so important for us to effectively manage stress and work with it better to get its benefits.

So, let’s talk about it.

➡️ Eustress is the adrenaline rush that fuels us to meet a challenge, the motivating factor behind many of our achievements.

It's the type of stress we feel:

• When Facing Exciting Challenges: Like starting a new project or preparing for a major event.
• During Positive Life Changes: Such as getting married or buying a new house.
• While Pursuing Personal Goals: Like training for a marathon or learning a new skill.
• And more positive challenges…

It's energizing, not draining – pushing us towards growth and accomplishment.

➡️ On the other hand, there’s Distress, the side of stress we often talk about.

It’s the overwhelming feeling that comes when:

• Workloads Overburden: Constant deadlines and unmanageable workloads are classic examples
• Personal Challenges Overwhelm: Like financial worries, relationship issues, or health concerns
• Uncertainty Prevails: Especially in times of change or instability
• And more negative challenges…

Distress can be mentally and physically draining, affecting our health, productivity, and well-being.

And so, we need a way to manage the Distress, and get more of the Eustress.

Here are a few ways how:

1. Recognize Your Stress Type: Start by identifying whether you’re experiencing eustress or distress. This awareness is key.

1. Embrace Eustress: Channel the energy from eustress into productive activities. Be intentional in using it as the fuel to drive creativity and problem-solving.

1. Mitigate Distress: Develop coping strategies for distress. This could include mindfulness practices, exercise, or seeking support from friends, family, or professionals.

1. Balance is Key: Aim for a healthy balance. Too much eustress can be as overwhelming as distress. Find your equilibrium where stress motivates but doesn’t overwhelm.

1. Set Boundaries: Learn to say no and set limits. Overcommitting, whether at work or in personal life, can quickly turn eustress into distress.
2. Regular Check-ins: Take time to assess your stress levels. Ask yourself: How am I feeling? Am I energized or drained? This will help you adjust your approach and activities accordingly.

Understanding and managing the two faces of stress can lead to a healthier, more productive life. 

It’s about recognizing when stress is a positive challenge and when it’s a warning sign to step back and regroup. 🖤

Want more guidance with stress management?

Our Signature Stress Resilience Training can help. We offer in-depth resources, videos, and guides to combat stress more effectively.

Learn more and inquire here!

Create a great day,

Amanda + Team Mako Mindfulness #MakoMindfulness