Stress: The Good, the Bad, and How to Keep It in Check

Hows it going team?

Let’s have a proper chat about something we all know too well—stress.

It’s the thing that creeps up on us when life gets a bit too much, and if we’re being honest, most of us see it as nothing but trouble.

But what if I told you stress isn't always the bad guy?

Stress: It’s Not All Doom and Gloom

Now, don’t get me wrong—being under constant stress isn’t doing anyone any favours.

Long-term exposure to it can lead to all sorts of problems, from mental burnout to physical health issues. But here’s the thing: stress isn’t always the enemy.

Stress has a purpose. It’s part of what keeps us alive and kicking.

Back in the day, it helped us leg it from predators or go hunting for food. Even now, it can give us that extra boost when we’re up against a tight deadline or in a tricky situation.

Stress triggers something called the fight or flight response, pumping us full of energy and getting our bodies ready to deal with whatever’s coming.

Short bursts of stress can actually help sharpen our focus, keep us on our toes, and even boost performance.

The Problem? Too Much of a Good Thing

The problem with stress isn’t the occasional hit—it’s when we’re under the cosh for too long.

Extended periods of stress leave us feeling knackered, anxious, and drained. That’s when it shifts from being helpful to harmful.

Our bodies aren’t designed to be on high alert 24/7.

Cortisol, the stress hormone, sticks around too long and starts causing havoc. You’re more likely to get poorly, sleep worse, and feel proper run down.

It’s like driving a car at full speed without a break—eventually, something’s gonna give.

Finding the Balance: A Bit of Stress Can Go a Long Way

I’ve been banging on about this on the Average Jacks Podcast (if you missed last week’s episode, get on it—it’s all about energy optimisation and stress management).

The brilliant Amy Carter, dives into the subject of stress and its effects on the everyday person and how we can navigate it. We also talk about the importance of  energy optimisation.

If you’re intrigued, make sure you give it a listen—it’s a gem for anyone looking to make stress work for them, not against them.

See the link above and below!

What Can You Do About It?

Here are some top tips for keeping stress in its place:

1. Know Your Triggers: Figure out what sets you off. Is it work? Family? Too many commitments? Once you know, you can start managing it better.
2. Take Regular Breaks: Don’t push through thinking you’re invincible. You’re not, mate. Take five, recharge, and come back better and refreshed.
3. Focus on What You Can Control: We stress about a lot of things we can’t change. Easier said than done, but try and focus your energy on what you can fix.

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Long-term stress isn’t a joke, but short-term stress?

It’s just your body trying to help you out. Learn to recognise the difference, and you’ll be great.

Have a cracking week,

Jack

@Jmckiernanbooks

P.S. Don’t forget to check out that podcast episode for more tips on balancing energy and stress—it’s well worth your time!

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