We all deal with stress. It pushes us to get things done but can also sneak up on us and mess with our effectiveness. While little annoyances aren’t a big deal on their own, the real problem comes when stress piles up and turns into chronic stress. As a leader, you probably know a thing or two about stress. When it sticks around for too long, it can seriously mess with your mental and physical health. Let’s look at what chronic stress does to us and how we can keep it in check. What is Stress? Stress is how we react mentally, emotionally, and physically to things happening around us. It comes in all shapes and sizes, depending on what’s going on in our lives. Interestingly, stress isn’t always bad. It can actually motivate us to get things done. But there’s a thin line between just enough stress and too much stress. When it becomes chronic, it’s a different story. Chronic stress is that constant, overwhelming feeling that never seems to go away. When we don’t pay attention to our stress levels, we can get stuck in this high-stress mode, which can really harm our minds and bodies over time. The Dangers of Chronic Stress Our bodies aren’t made to handle constant stress. Chronic stress, sometimes called allostatic load, can lead to serious health issues. Two main hormones are involved in stress: the “fight or flight” hormone and its counterpart, the “fight or flight inhibitor.” Here’s what happens when you’re stressed: You feel stressed. The fight or flight hormone kicks in. Blood rushes to your limbs, getting you ready to fight or run. This reaction takes resources away from your brain, making it hard to think clearly. Meanwhile, your body’s anti-inflammatory hormone helps convert fat into energy but also shuts down your immune system and stops the development of new brain cells. In other words, chronic stress can make it hard to think straight and can make you sick. Finding Balance: Three Ways to Manage Stress Thankfully, we have a fight or flight inhibitor that helps us relax and recharge. When this inhibitor is active, we feel our best, with all our mental resources at our disposal. Here are some ways to manage stress and activate this renewal state: Here are some ways to manage stress and activate this renewal state: 1. Find Your Flow Finding your flow means doing activities that fully engage you, making you lose track of time and feel at ease. This is different for everyone. For me, it’s singing while cooking. For you, it might be gardening, painting, jogging, or playing an instrument. The key is to identify what activities make you feel in the zone and prioritize making time for them. These activities can help you recharge and provide a much-needed break from stress. 2. Express Gratitude Gratitude is a powerful tool for shifting your mindset and reducing stress. Start your day by acknowledging what you’re grateful for to set a positive tone. You can write down three things you’re thankful for every morning or simply take a moment to reflect on the good things in your life. This can help you focus on the positive aspects of your day, which can make the challenges feel more manageable. 3. Laugh More Humor is not just great for lifting your spirits; it’s also linked to better leadership and improved team dynamics. Sharing a laugh with colleagues can create a positive and relaxed atmosphere, making everyone feel more connected and less stressed. Watch a funny video, share a joke, or just embrace the lighter moments at work. Laughter is contagious and can spread positivity throughout your team, enhancing overall morale and effectiveness. Conclusion Recognizing when you’re stressed out is crucial. If left unchecked, chronic stress can harm your mental and physical health. As a leader, stay mindful of your stress levels and manage them effectively. Remember, you set the tone for your workplace. By managing your stress, you not only improve your own effectiveness but also create a better environment for your team. Whether it’s picking up a new hobby, practicing gratitude, or fostering a fun workplace, these strategies can make a big difference. For more leadership development tips, follow my LinkedIn or check out my podcast, Next-Gen Leaders. Until next time, keep striving, growing, and leading with purpose.
