Stress is a part of life, whether it’s a deadline at work, a big presentation, or personal challenges. It can sometimes feel overwhelming, but what if we could look at stress differently? By seeing stress as a motivator rather than something negative, we can actually make it work for us.

Here are a few ways to shift your mindset around stress.

1. A New Way to Think About Stress: The “Tend and Befriend” Approach

You’ve probably heard of the “fight or flight” reaction to stress—our body’s automatic way of dealing with threats. But psychologist Shelley Taylor suggested another way: the “tend and befriend” approach. This means, instead of isolating ourselves when stressed, we seek support and strengthen our social connections.

When we bond with others, we can manage stress better. Talking to a friend, getting advice, or just having someone listen can make a huge difference in how we feel. We’re social beings, and staying connected helps both our mental and physical health.

2. Changing How We See Stress

The way we think about stress matters. If we see it as something we can handle, we’re more likely to stay healthy and perform better. Stress can actually make us stronger if we approach it with the right mindset.

The next time you’re stressed, try saying things like, “I can learn from this,” or “This is a chance for me to grow.” These small shifts in thinking can make a big impact on how you feel and react.

3. Turn Anxiety into Excitement

Did you know that anxiety and excitement feel very similar in the body? Both make your heart race and give you that burst of energy. So instead of trying to calm yourself down, why not channel that anxiety into excitement?

Research shows that people who tell themselves, “I’m excited!” before doing something stressful, like giving a presentation, actually perform better. It’s easier to turn nervous energy into excitement than to try to calm down completely. So the next time you’re anxious, try to reframe it as excitement!

4. Practical Tips for Managing Stress

• Be Mindful: Stay in the moment. Meditation or deep breathing can help you stay calm and focused. Accept stress as a part of life instead of fighting it, and you’ll notice its hold on you loosening.
• Connect with Others: Don’t go through stress alone. Talk to friends or family. Social support can bring fresh perspectives and solutions to problems.
• Positive Self-Talk: Change how you speak to yourself. Instead of saying, “I’m too stressed,” try, “I’m ready to take this on!” It sounds simple, but this can help you handle stress better.
• Exercise: Physical activity is a great stress reliever. Whether it’s a workout or a simple walk, moving your body can help you feel better mentally.
• Find Meaningful Activities: Whether it’s a hobby or volunteering, doing things that matter to you can take your mind off stress and make you feel accomplished.

5. Additional Tips to Keep Stress in Check

• Get Enough Sleep: Sleep is essential for handling stress. Make sure you’re getting enough rest, and stick to a routine to improve sleep quality.
• Eat Well: What you eat affects how you feel. A balanced diet can keep your mood steady and your energy up, making it easier to handle stress.
• Manage Your Time: Good time management helps you feel more in control. Use a to-do list or calendar to stay on track and avoid feeling overwhelmed.
• Seek Help if Needed: If stress feels like too much to handle, talking to a professional can provide support and new ways to cope.

Embrace Stress as Your Ally

Changing how we think about stress can help us use it as a source of strength. By connecting with others, reframing anxiety as excitement, and practicing mindfulness, we can turn stress into something that drives us forward.

Stress doesn’t have to be the enemy—it can push us to grow, achieve, and become more resilient. So next time you feel it coming on, remember: stress can be a tool for success if you know how to handle it!