Perception shifts. Turning negative to positive.

“I’m really stressed out about this, but I’m also kind of excited about it, too!”

This came from a friend as he described a big project he’s working on. His eyes were shining and he was noticeably happy. I was happy, too, because just weeks before he’d been complaining about this same project, but had been clearly discouraged about it.

He was stressed both times, but once negatively, and the other time, positively. That’s the difference between distress and eustress, and according to performance coach Samantha Attard, Ph.D., we have the power to shift from the dark pressure to the lighter one through strategic self-talk. The key, she explains, is positioning your perception in a more positive light.

Using a cold call as an example, let’s see how I might move myself from distress over it to eustress:

• What is the purpose of this experience? Rather than, “I need to phone this guy to make a sale”, shift to, “I want to introduce this contact to a new resource that could improve his life.”
• What are the personal benefits of this experience? Instead of fearing rejection, bennies would be expanding my network, building communications skills, and advancing the mission of my organization.
• What are the benefits to others? The information I want to share has the potential to improve his business bottom line and the performance and morale of his team members. He’ll then be able to accomplish more toward his business goals.
• Do I need outside resources to help me accomplish this? When in true distress, it can make sense to involve others for additional help, support or guidance. In this example, role playing with a colleague would be wise.
• And finally, what aspect of this experience can I find enjoyment in? If it has to be done, find ways to make it fun! Rewarding myself with a small treat once the call has been made would up the fun factor.

Distress happens. Eustress happens, too. Learning to consciously shift from one to the other can lighten the emotional drain and improve results.

Photo Credit: © Igor Terekhov. ID 2985850 | Dreamstime Stock Photos