How Highly Successful People Handle Stress

Amy Taylor December 04, 2014

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Successful people share common traits. And these include being able to handle stress effectively. Keeping calm amidst a very challenging situation is a skill that each of us can really benefit from. When we are able to manage stress effectively, we can think about better ways to resolve an issue, resist failure, and make our life happier, healthier and longer.

Think about the highly successful people you idolise. Ever wonder why how they manage to keep calm during periods of stress? Here are their secrets.

They are always mindful.

Highly successful people focus their energy on the present moment, not in the past or the future. They believe that ‘now’ is a moment of opportunity to make a change, do something better, and achieve success. Mindfulness allows an individual to overcome the hurts of the past and do away from the worrisome thoughts of the future, resulting to lesser stress.

They see the glass half full.

Another interesting trait of highly successful people that help them manage stress effectively is their positive perspective. These people look at the glass half full, not half empty. Remaining calm amidst a stressful situation is not an easy thing to do. But because they have a positive, optimistic attitude, they don’t get easily carried away by the turn of events and the influx of their emotions. 

They prioritise sleep.

Contrary to what many of us believe, highly successful people value sleep as they value all other important things in their life. Tons of research suggest that sleep has a significant effect on our stress levels. Getting enough shut-eye and rest each night strengthens our body, which in turn increases our immunity against stress and other health problems. Quality sleep keeps them away from anxiety, mood swings, and depressive symptoms, among others.

They don’t forget to be thankful.

Gratitude might be a simple act. But it has powerful effects on our health and well-being. People who are deemed highly successful are able to focus on what they have, rather on what they do not. Gratitude allows an individual to appreciate the good times, rather than dwell in the bad. It helps minimise the negative and empowers calmness.

They observe life-work balance.

Despite the big responsibilities they handle at work, highly successful people understand that they also need time for leisure and recreation. They make sure to spend quality time for their friends and family, and see to it that their personal and emotional needs are met. They go on vacations, travel, and seek new meaningful experiences. They disconnect from their mobile phones or computers, and give time for solitude. Observing work-life balance is a very powerful strategy to fight stress.   

They have a strong support system.

Highly successful individuals know that dealing with stressful situations is easier when there are people around to help them. They lean into their circle of support during difficult moments, and at the same time, make themselves available to help others for the same purpose. Highly successful people don’t hesitate calling their friends or family, or seeking the help of a professional for guidance and support.

They eat healthy.

Truly successful people prioritise their health over other matters. It’s because they understand that they will not be able to do things efficiently when they are ill. They realise that by making small changes in their diet, giving more focus on foods with high nutritional value, and observing portion control, they can strengthen their immunity against stress.

They work out.

Another very important trait that successful people share is their passion for physical activity. Regular exercise serves as an antidote to stress. Numerous studies show that when we exercise, our mood improves, so as our overall mental and emotional health. Despite their busy schedule, highly successful people find a way to work out and stay physically active.

The ability to deal with stress is a skill that doesn’t only help us achieve success, but also keeps us healthy and happy. By incorporating the traits mentioned above, you too can manage stress effectively, and become successful.