We tend to give stress a lousy rap, associating it with sleepless nights, heart palpitations, and overwhelming challenges. But what if stress isn’t the enemy? What if it’s the key to unlocking your full potential instead?
Yes, it’s possible to use it to your advantage and to make it take you beyond mere survival into a thriving state: mentally sharp, physically fit, and emotionally resilient.
So, let’s delve into the science of stress and how to transform it from a survival mechanism to a tool for better living.
Survival Mode: An Ancient Mechanism
When discussing origins, we must recognize stress as a survival tool. That’s because the body triggers the “fight or flight” response when there’s a threat. This physiological reaction, orchestrated by stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, prepares the body to face or escape danger. Physically, we feel our heart rate quicken, our breathing quicken, our muscles tense, and our senses heighten.
We refer to this mode as ancestral because, in our ancestors’ world, these responses saved their lives. Whether fleeing a predator or defending a resource, stress prepares the body for action. But in modern life, these exact mechanisms can be activated in much less serious situations, such as work deadlines, financial pressures, or relationship conflicts.
While acute stress can be beneficial (as it sharpens concentration and improves performance), chronic stress poses several significant risks. For example, prolonged activation of the stress response can lead to health problems such as hypertension, weakened immune function, or cognitive decline.
The key is to learn to harness stress as a positive force rather than allow it to become a persistent burden on our well-being.
Turning Threat into Challenge
The key to overcoming various difficulties is often a change in perspective, and thriving under stress lies in reframing it. So, instead of viewing a stressful situation as a threat, we can view it as a challenge, an opportunity to rise to the occasion.
This mindset shift activates what psychologists call the “challenge-response,” a state in which stress becomes energizing rather than debilitating.
Here’s how to access the challenge response:
- Change your perspective: Instead of fearing failure, focus on the opportunity to learn and grow.
- Recognize your resources: Consider your strengths, skills, and support systems. Knowing you have what it takes boosts your confidence.
- Accept the physical symptoms: Sweaty palms or a racing heart? These are signs that your body is preparing to act. Instead of fighting them, view them as tools.
- Stay goal-oriented: Hold on to your purpose. Why does this challenge matter to you? Remembering your “why” fuels motivation and resilience.
Not only will responding to the challenge improve your performance, but it will also empower you. Instead of succumbing to frustration or fear, you’ll feel capable and energized—a crucial step in transforming stress from a coping mechanism to a thriving state.
The Science Behind Thriving Under Stress
As we’ve already seen, when stress is managed correctly, it can activate several robust systems in your brain and body:
- The social caring system: Regulated by oxytocin, this system fosters empathy, connection, and trust. By reducing fear and increasing courage, people are more likely to seek support and collaboration from others in difficult times.
- The reward system: Activated by dopamine, this system increases motivation and optimism. When stress includes a dopamine rush, you feel driven to take meaningful action and are better prepared to meet challenges.
- The attunement system: Driven by serotonin, this network sharpens perception, self-control, and intuition. It helps you assess situations wisely and act with skill and clarity.
Together, these systems allow you to move beyond fight or flight, equipping you with the emotional intelligence and physical energy needed to thrive.
Stress as a catalyst for growth
Among the benefits of moderate, intermittent stress, we know that it can improve brain function. Research from the University of California, Berkeley, demonstrates this by studying short-term stress as a brain stimulant by generating new cells, particularly in areas linked to memory and learning. However, as we also know, prolonged or chronic stress can inhibit this process, which underlines the importance of managing stress effectively.
Dr. Elizabeth Kirby, who led the study, notes: “Intermittent stressful events are probably what keeps the brain most alert.” This finding suggests that small doses of stress and adequate recovery can keep the mind alert and adaptable.
Beyond Survival Mode
Here, we will see how this mode, characterized by increased vigilance, fear, and instinct to react, can cause harmful effects if it remains for prolonged periods, affecting mental and physical health. Some of its symptoms include:
- Cognitive impairment: difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness, or constant worry.
- Emotional tension: increased anxiety, irritability, or feelings of helplessness.
- Physical symptoms: fatigue, muscle tension, or frequent illnesses.
Here’s the trick!
To break free from survival mode, one must cultivate resilience and create a set of tools to manage stress effectively.
Some of these strategies to move from survival to prosperity are:
- Mindfulness practices: techniques such as meditation or deep breathing calm the nervous system and return it to the present moment.
- Physical activity: Exercise reduces stress hormones and increases endorphins, the body’s natural mood elevators.
- Cognitive training: Engage in activities that challenge your brain, such as puzzles, reading, or learning new skills. These activities build mental resilience.
- Interpersonal connections: Strengthen relationships through meaningful conversations or acts of kindness. Social support is a powerful buffer against stress.
- Gratitude practices: Reflecting on what you are grateful for shifts the focus from what is wrong to what is right, which fosters a more positive mindset.
How to Achieve Success Through Stress
Did you know that some of the most successful people in the world attribute their achievements to their ability to manage stress? TalentSmart, a research organization, found that 90% of top performers excel at managing their emotions under pressure. These people leverage stress as a tool to focus and be creative rather than allowing it to overwhelm them.
The secret? Developing emotional agility. This involves acknowledging stress without letting it dictate your actions, not your emotions.
By practicing emotional regulation, you can stay calm and in control, even in high-risk situations.
Stress Translated into Resilience and Longevity
When managed effectively, stress can also improve longevity. Hormetic stress (small, manageable doses of stress) has been shown to improve cellular health, increasing cell production and reducing inflammation while strengthening resilience.
With specific practices such as cold exposure, intermittent fasting, or challenging workouts, controlled stress can be applied to promote physical and mental strength.
From Survival to Thriving: A New Paradigm
Always remember that the journey from survival mode to a state of thriving requires intention and practice. By reframing stress as an ally, cultivating resilience, and engaging in growth-oriented practices, you can turn life’s challenges into opportunities for greatness.
Instead of fearing stress, embrace it. Let it sharpen your mind, strengthen your body, and deepen your emotional well-being. With the right mindset and tools, you can not only survive but thrive—live a life that is not just reactive but proactive, purposeful, and amazing.
At Born Super Human, we will continue to provide you with the insights and strategies you need to harness stress and redefine what is possible. Stress is not just something to endure. It is a force to be harnessed, a teacher to learn from, and a stepping stone to a better life.
Let us help you on your journey to becoming a superhuman!
