Why stress isn’t the enemy
Stress is often seen as something to avoid, but did you know that the way we think about stress can impact how it affects us? Research suggests that believing all stress is harmful is one of the strongest predictors of long-term stress-related illnesses, more so than the actual level of stress itself.
The truth is, some stress is essential. It can boost our performance, sharpen focus, and even improve wellbeing. The key lies in how we manage and respond to it.
Understanding the stress response
When we face challenges, our brain picks up cues from our environment to decide whether to trigger a “we’ve got this” response or to hit the panic button.
Several factors influence this decision:
- Your workload – How many things are on your plate? Are you in control of your tasks?
- Your physical state – Are you getting enough sleep, nutrition and movement?
- Your support system – Do you have people who encourage and uplift you?
- Your past experiences – Have you successfully handled similar situations before?
- The duration of stress – Has this been going on for too long without relief?
When these factors are aligned positively, we’re more likely to see stress as a challenge rather than a threat, leading to a healthier and more productive response.
How to manage stress & build resilience
Resilience isn’t about eliminating stress-it’s about developing the ability to adapt and recover effectively. Here are some practical strategies:
- Shift your perspective on stress
Rather than seeing stress as the enemy, consider how it can serve you. Think about a time when stress helped you stay sharp, meet a deadline or perform at your best. What made the difference? Can you recreate that mindset?
- Strengthen your support system
Having the right people around you is a game-changer. Whether it’s colleagues, mentors or friends, supportive relationships help buffer the impact of stress and encourage resilience.
- Prioritise self-care
Your physical and mental wellbeing play a huge role in how you handle pressure. Small, consistent habits like getting enough sleep, regular exercise and mindfulness practices can make a world of difference.
- Manage workload & set boundaries
Feeling constantly overwhelmed? It may be time to reassess your workload. Learn to delegate, set realistic goals and establish boundaries to protect your time and energy.
- Build coping strategies
Developing practical coping mechanisms, such as breathing exercises, time management techniques, or even taking short breaks, can help prevent stress from escalating into burnout.
Putting Wellbeing at the Heart of Workplace Culture
Stress is a part of life, but how we respond to it determines whether it hinders or helps us. By shifting our mindset, building a strong support system and prioritising wellbeing, we can turn stress into a tool for growth rather than a roadblock.
Building resilience in the workplace isn’t just about supporting individuals – it’s about creating an organisational culture that prioritises mental health and wellbeing at every level. When employees feel valued, supported, and equipped to manage stress, businesses thrive.
At Oakwood Training, we help organisations create cultures that foster resilience, improve employee wellbeing and drive long-term success.
