Stress is a normal part of life. Learning to use it to your advantage help you lead a healthy and productive life.
How Stress Can Help You
Stress is a natural response to a threatening situation. If you're on a hike and see a bear, your body will experience a stress response that boosts your heart rate and awareness. It helps you stay alive.
Stress can also be a good motivator and, when managed, it will push you towards your goals. When approaching a deadline, for example, the right amount of stress can keep you focused and determined to finish on time.
Too Much Stress Can Be Harmful
Unfortunately, many of us are in a constant state of stress. The pressures of daily life in a fast-paced society can take its toll.
Too much stress can have adverse effects such as fatigue, anxiety, and depression, which impacts your health and may increase your risk of chronic illness such as heart disease.
Therefore, it's important to learn to manage your stress levels and maintain a healthy balance.