Is all stress bad?

Not all stress has undesirable impacts on how we perform, whether that’s in sport, music, or at work or school. In fact, some stress can help us bring our A-game! Moderate amounts of stress helps us be alert, focused and motivated to do well. Experiencing nerves just means that what we’re doing is important to us!

To little stress may mean that we feel bored, apathetic and less motivated to do well. At the other end of the spectrum, large amounts of stress can negatively impact performance. This can lead to freezing under pressure and having difficulties thinking clearly and creatively. The point at which stress starts to negatively affect performance is unique to us.

The good news is that stress management is a skill, and like any skill, we can get better at it.

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