EP124: The Magic of Understanding Stress
I’M SO STRESSED!
It happens. And you have agency in your response.
Enjoy!
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(The notes below are only a brief bullet point summary of what is discussed in the podcast. Be sure to listen to get all of the goodness! If you would like a full transcription of the episode, please send an email request to: angie@angie-robinson.com. We’d be happy to provide that!)
In this episode, we're diving into the often misunderstood but universally experienced concept of stress. It is something that is present for every leader in some capacity….as well as in life! I am not here to say that you can live a life without it - or you can think your way out of it. But understanding stress - and your typical reaction to it - really can be magic in so many ways.
Understanding Stress: Definition and Types
The definition of stress is: "a state of mental or emotional strain or tension resulting from adverse or very demanding circumstances."
Stress isn’t just an emotional state; it’s a full-body reaction to challenging circumstances. It can manifest as emotional or physical tension, often triggered by thoughts that evoke frustration, anger, or nervousness.
Not all stress is bad. There is actually both a healthy stress and unhealthy stress. “Eustress” is that "good" stress. It is beneficial for performance and motivation, especially when stretched just enough to challenge but not overwhelm us. It can actually move us forward.
“Distress” is the harmful stress that causes panic and decreased performance. It often occurs when the pressure becomes too overwhelming.
Finding that sweet spot where there isn’t too little or too much pressure is the goal.
Stress can also be either acute or chronic. “Acute Stress” is short-term stress, like being stuck in traffic or dealing with a sudden work crisis. “Chronic Stress” is long-term stress that builds up over time, often from ongoing issues like a consistently heavy workload.
Identifying Your Stress Triggers
There are several things that could trigger stress in leadership, such as: high expectations. decision-making pressure, dysfunctional team, safety issues at the workplace, being short-staffed, a lack of resources, customer concerns, financial pressures, being micromanaged, lack of trust and fear of failure.
Personality preferences can also play a role in stress triggers. Speaking in the language of Insights (which is one of many personality assessment tools available on the market) - here is what might trigger stress for different personalities:
Cool Blue (introverted/thinking): a lack of information, distractions, or feeling rushed.
Fiery Red (extraverted/thinking): a lack of control or slow progress towards goals.
Sunshine Yellow (extraverted/feeling): restrictions, a lack of flexibility, or personal rejection.
Earth Green (introverted/feeling): unfair treatment, interruptions, or time pressure.
Identifying your triggers is the first step to managing stress effectively. Keeping a close watch on how stress manifests physically (sweating, dizziness) and behaviorally (withdrawal, irritability) can help anticipate and mitigate its effects.
Ways to Manage Stress
Victor Frankl, a Holocaust survivor, and author of "Man's Search for Meaning," offered profound wisdom:
"Between stimulus and response, there is space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom."
This quote emphasizes the importance of recognizing the gap between what happens to us and how we choose to respond.
Here are some practical strategies for stress management:
1. Self-Awareness: Understand your stress triggers and responses. What physical signs indicate stress for you? How do you behave under stress?
2. Optimize Time: Prioritize tasks and practice good time management. Breaking down overwhelming tasks into manageable parts can reduce stress.
3. Healthy Habits: Incorporate breaks, adequate sleep, nutritious food, and physical exercise into your routine. These practices improve overall resilience.
4. Mental Practices: Techniques like journaling, mindfulness, or meditation can help clear your mind and reduce stress.
5. Seek Support*: Don’t hesitate to ask for help from colleagues, mentors, or professionals. Accepting assistance and emotional support is crucial.
6. Cater to Your Preferred Personality Type (examples via Insights below).
Cool Blue: Invest time in relationships, be open to flexible deadlines, and accept both tactical and emotional support.
Fiery Red: Create personal downtime and non-competitive relaxation activities.
Sunshine Yellow: Stick to plans, avoid unrealistic deadlines, and slow down.
Earth Green: Prioritize self-care, periodically set aside tasks, and reflect to restore balance.
Leadership, Your Team and Stress
As a leader, recognizing stress not only in yourself but also in your team is vital. Promoting work-life balance, being flexible with schedules, providing training on stress management, and ensuring clear communication can significantly reduce a stressful environment. Building resilience within your team encourages a growth mindset and enhances their ability to bounce back from setbacks.
Conclusion
Understanding and managing stress is essential, particularly for leaders. By bringing awareness to your unique triggers and implementing personalized strategies, you can create a healthier, more productive environment for yourself and your team. Remember, the key lies in the space between stimulus and response. Use it wisely to choose how you want to respond, fostering growth and freedom in the process.
What Do You Think?
Do you have any personal experiences or strategies that have helped you manage stress?
Links
Episode 83: Exploring Leaders' Impact on Psychological Safety
Episode 92: Building Resilience as a Self-Aware Leader
Episode 108: Optimizing Your Time: What Does That Even Mean
Episode 109: Optimizing Your Time: The Art + Science of Delegation
Episode 110: Optimizing Your Time: Find What Works for You
Episode 111: Optimizing Your Time: Staying the Course
Episode 122: Navigating Perfectionism in Leadership
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