Stress & upset activate the part of our brain responsible for our immediate survival & deactivate the executive functioning part of our brain responsible for our long-term success.
This survival mode is needed when we're facing life-threatening situations because it enables us to act fast without thinking. Although this can save our lives in dangerous situations, it's detrimental to our relationships and long-term success when activated in everyday life.
When we're stressed & upset, we're likely to be tense and pessimistic with underlying urges to either argue and fight or run and hide. We're more likely to be confused, disorganized, discouraged, harsh, agitated, obsessive or exhausted. Feelings that accompany stress include fear, anger, sadness, insecurity, feeling isolated, humiliated, worthless, frustrated, resentful, paralyzed or vulnerable.
The survival characteristics listed above all negatively impact our ability to interact well with others, be our most productive at work, and reach our long-term goals.
Relieving stress & upset re-activates the executive functioning part of our brain responsible for our long-term success.
This executive functioning mode includes the ability to reason, plan, problem solve, organize, strategize, pay attention to and remember details. It helps us focus, exercise discipline and self-control, be flexible, modulate emotional responses, relate well with others, and initiate tasks or activities. It helps us think clearly and make fruitful plans for our future.
When we're not stressed, we're likely to be relaxed and optimistic… and we can be engaged, energized, playful, orderly, connected, capable, inspired, kind, efficient, flowing, clear headed, or at peace. Stress-free feelings include serenity, gratitude, joy, interest, hope, pride, amusement, inspiration, awe and love.
The executive functioning characteristics are those that enhance our ability to interact well with others, be productive at work, and reach our long-term goals.