Why is stress so important

Understanding stress does not always mean we can manage it well. I often find myself in situations where the theory of stress and my real life do not align. Why does this happen? Because it is difficult to stay aware and in control at all times, especially when trying to notice what triggers stress and how it recurs.

A peaceful landscape inviting self-reflection and exploration.

Understanding stress

Stress usually happens when the demands placed on us exceed our ability to cope. This creates physical or emotional tension. Research shows that there are three main types of stress: Acute stress (short-term), Episodic acute stress (frequent short-term stress), and is Chronic stress (long-term stress)

Today, many people experience chronic stress due to changes in society. Work pressure, personal relationships, financial concerns, and social expectations all contribute to higher stress levels. Over time, this can affect both mental and physical health.

My own experience

I understand the triggers of stress, yet I still experience it often, especially at work. For me, stress shows up as dizziness, sweating, poor sleep, and stomach issues. The stomach is the most affected part of my body, and it arose when I was not aware of what stress can lead to, and I notice a clear drop in my focus when I feel stressed. This is because slowly I become conscious about life in general.  Because of this, I strongly relate to what researchers say about stress.

I often feel stressed because I care deeply about my work environment. I think about management, company culture, fairness, and how employees are treated. My interest in psychology makes me more aware of these things, and I value transparency, care, and kindness.

This means I am sensitive to whether a workplace is fair, efficient, and supportive, or simply focused on profit. I recognise that part of the stress comes from within me, as I will likely care deeply in any environment. However, I also understand that being in the wrong environment can increase stress. I am currently working on changing my environment so that, even if stress exists, I feel more in control and able to make a positive impact. When I am part of solving a problem, my stress often reduces. As James Clear explains in Atomic Habits, habits can reinforce themselves, meaning stress patterns can continue if not addressed.

The role of habits

Stress can easily become a habit. What starts as a reaction can turn into repeated behaviour, and over time, it becomes part of how we think and act. Once a habit is deeply formed in the mind, it can appear automatically whenever a similar situation arises.

If not recognised early, stress habits are difficult to change. They require discipline, consistency, and awareness. Even when we try to change, the mind may tell us, “just one more time,” or convince us that “this is just who you are.”

Research from books such as Atomic Habits by James Clear and Why Zebras Don’t Get Ulcers by Robert Sapolsky shows that repeated stress responses can become automatic patterns in the brain. These patterns are strengthened over time, making stress feel normal. However, with consistent effort and small behavioural changes, it is possible to break these cycles and build healthier responses.

Self-control and reducing stress

I recently listened to a podcast with Dr Aditi Nerurkar, where she discussed how stress affects our daily functioning and why managing it is essential. One key idea is that self-control plays an important role in how we respond to stress.

Self-control can help us pause, reflect, and choose a better reaction instead of acting on impulse. Simple practices like breathing exercises, setting boundaries, and taking breaks can reduce stress levels.

However, self-control is not always easy to maintain, especially during busy or emotional periods. It requires practice and patience.

Books like The Upside of Stress by Kelly McGonigal explain that stress is not always harmful. When managed well, it can improve focus, performance, and resilience. Self-control helps us change how we view stress, from something negative into something that can support growth. Learning to respond rather than react is a key skill in reducing long-term stress.

Stress is a natural part of life, but it becomes a problem when it turns into a constant habit. Self-control is often used as a short-term strategy, for example, setting goals at the start of the week and deciding to stay positive. However, this alone is not enough. Once stress becomes a habit, it will not disappear unless we actively work on it. Awareness, consistent effort, and the right environment all play a role in managing stress effectively. Long-term stress management requires both internal and external changes.

According to research and clinical guidance, including insights from the Cleveland Clinic, effective stress management includes lifestyle adjustments (sleep, nutrition, exercise), mental strategies (mindfulness, reframing thoughts), and environmental changes (healthy workplaces and relationships). In the end, learning about stress is important not just for understanding it, but for improving how we live, work, and take care of ourselves.