Stress, pressure and tension

4 minute read

Stress is inevitable.

If you are pursuing anything of meaning you have no doubt experienced stress.

… and a life without stress, one of comfort and ease we know will lead to atrophy and a slow decay of our strength.

So it’s not a matter of a stress free life but changing how we relate to it.

Understanding Stress Perception

Our mindset about stress plays a pivotal role in determining its effects. Viewing stress as a challenge rather than a threat can lead to more adaptive physiological responses and improved performance. A perspective that suggests that by embracing stress, when managed properly, we can enhance resilience and personal growth.

Think about it, have you ever noticed how you’re never too tired for things you love?

How you always find the time, energy and resources despite stress you may feel?

How when you’re in pursuit of something meaningful you can withstand nearly any obstacle?

I always think about jiujitsu.

There is quite literally another force trying to apply pressure on my frame in an attempt to collapse and weaken me.

It is an external combatant who’s only goal is to win and for me to lose.

It is a very real metaphor for pressure.

An external force pushing down.

If you’ve ever rolled before you know the feeling of that force, it is crippling.

… and if it weren’t for my own internal tension to pursue my own greatness on the mat I never would have advanced beyond the first class.

If I spent my time comparing myself to others rather than improving my own game, or focused on all the failures rather than consistent progress I would likely quit.

This is a template for all domains.

I know there is a better version of me — and the stress and pressure is simply structural tension pulling me towards the outcome I want.

If you’re feeling stress, it’s rarely exhaustion.

It’s misalignment.

And it comes from the meaning you place on it.

Without meaning, life is all pressure, the weight of expectation with no foundation.

Just getting pummeled.

With meaning, life creates tension, a force that expands you.

This is sparring.

The Strongest Structures Aren’t Pressure-Proof

They are tension, balanced.

Your stress isn’t the problem.

Your perspective on stress is.

Tension leads to transformation.

It is the bridge that you and others will walk from pain to purpose.

It is a you vs you game and leads to self-mastery.

Start Here

Explore your interests and curiosities.

Devote time daily to developing your passions.

Create meaning by mastering yourself.

This is the path to a stress free and purposeful life.

You don’t need less stress.

You need more meaning.

You got this.

E

P.S. If this hit home, reply and let me know, are you feeling pressure, or are you building tension?