If you’ve been following me for a while, you know I love to talk about how there are actually several different types of stress. Usually what you read about is negative stress – that’s the one where you experience the really bad emotional, physical, and spiritual effects. Remember this is called, “threat stress” and refers to situations where you believe you lack the resources to take care of the situation. For example, if you think you don’t have enough money each month to pay the mortgage, or if you think you don’t have enough fortitude or knowledge to learn the latest software at work, and you’re still learning the old one, this could lead to threat stress.
However, midstage, is “challenge stress”. Here you’re getting out of your comfort zone, just a little. You know you can handle the situation though; it’s just more of a nuisance. For example, you get a flat tire on the way to work or you get a toothache and have to see your dentist STAT.
But, to counter both of these is “eustress”, aka, good stress and this is what you need to ramp up. I’m constantly encouraging clients to find ways to bump this up, on a daily basis. Eustress motivates you, can give you an energy boost, and can help you stay focused so you can keep moving forward. How? For example, this last February, I decided I needed to bump up my eustress after we finally finished taking care of all the details of getting our home rebuilt. I knew I wanted something that would have a good outcome and I could take joy in along the way.
I decided to write a book!
Many people think writing a book is stressful. But then, which kind of stress is it: threat; challenge; or eustress? Depends on your perspective and the resources you bring to the situation. For me, it’s eustress.
What about you? What are some ways you can add more eustress to your life? Here are 5 ideas.
- Learn a new language
- Plan a vacation to a place you’ve always wanted to visit
- Take up a new musical instrument
- Spend time reconnecting with an old friend
- Decide to do something that has great meaning for you, even though you’ve always perceived it as difficult (ex: learning to salsa or work with special needs kids)
Spend some time the rest of this month, finding ways to add more eustress to your life.
Oh, and by the way, I’m still working on my book. Getting the platform all settled and finishing up my sample chapters. Next stop – I get an agent. I can’t wait to see where this journey takes me.
As always, I love helping women live happier lives. Whether you call it depression, anxiety, stress, or nerves, I’d like to help. I invite you to call me at 512.680.2874 for your free 10-minute phone consultation. Let’s discuss how I may be able to help. If we decide to meet, I’ll have tea and chocolate truffles waiting for you.
Looking forward to hearing your story and helping you feel better,
Talk with you soon,
Dr. B.