Positive stress: starting signal for growth
Stress is not necessarily bad. Stress is a starting signal for learning. It only becomes a health issue when we act on positive stress too late. With the right mindset, stress turns from an obstacle into a springboard, perfect for personal and professional development.
Recognize positive versus negative stress
When an employee faces an unfamiliar task, it can go two ways: Negative stress: "I can't do that" result: tension and fear of failure. Positive stress: "I get to learn something new, I get the time and help" result: enthusiasm and power to grow. So the way you label stress determines whether it motivates or paralyzes you.
I get to learn something new!
What can you do as an employer?
- Identify stressors
Do a proper risk inventory and evaluation (RI&E) with attention to psychological strain (PSA) - Train employees in mental resilience
Offer stress workshops, role plays or coaching, not once but repeatedly - Encourage autonomy
Employees with a growth mindset find work more enjoyable. Give room for mistakes and own decisions - Support recovery moments
Promote short breaks or walks throughout the day; a five-minute micro-break lowers stress and increases focus - Offer one-session support.
Through services such as Direct a Good Call(Yet), people get professional help quickly, without endless pathways
Integrate positive stress into your business approach
Plan with an FiT calendar
Delineate moments for vitality, such as workshops, mindfulness, walks and recovery moments
Measure how things are going
Conduct regular Preventive Medical Examination (PMO), it provides insight into stress and sleep problems before failure
Useful links
Blog: Stress is a starting signal for learning
Blog: Mental resilience in the workplace
Blog: Walking during your workday
Take the step today
Want to join ZekerArbo in using positive stress as an engine for growth? Contact us for an informal conversation. With the right tools, support and mindset you not only work harder, but above all smarter and happier. Sure.
