What is stress
Stress is our response to a situation where demands outweigh our perceived ability to cope. These demands can be external (from work or life) or internal (our own expectations). While we usually associate stress with too much pressure, a lack of stimulation can also be a source of stress.
Acute vs chronic stress
Acute Stress: A sudden, short-lived response to a specific event (e.g., a deadline or a public speech). It can be beneficial, improving focus and motivation, and typically disappears once the situation is resolved.
Chronic Stress: A long-term state of feeling pressured and overwhelmed. It can negatively impact your physical and mental health, potentially leading to conditions like anxiety or depression.
Burnout
What it is: A state of complete mental, physical, and emotional exhaustion caused by unaddressed long-term stress.
Symptoms: Feeling empty, exhausted, and unable to cope. It can make it difficult to function and can diminish your ability to care about things that once mattered.
Cause: Often a combination of factors, including work, life responsibilities, and personal habits.
Resilience
Adaptability: Resilience is the ability to adjust to demands, both internal and external. It's more than just coping; it's about being flexible and learning from experience.
Skill, not trait: Resilience isn't something you're born with; it's a dynamic learning process. Skills like emotion regulation, effective problem-solving, and a strong sense of purpose can be developed over time.
Mindful awareness: Mindfulness is a key practice for building resilience. It teaches you to pause and observe your thoughts instead of reacting habitually to stress, which helps you remain balanced and stable even during hardship.
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