I believe there are three kinds of stress: Green, Yellow, Red.
When we experience yellow or red stress, what are we trying to get back to (answers below).
But first, let’s define green, yellow, and red stress:
Green stress motivates us. Think: chasing a goal. Real-World Example: I want to be able to do pull-ups in my 50’s 60’s and 70s. For me, the stress of training for this is motivating.
Yellow stress annoys us. Think: adulting. Real-World Example: The kids need to get off to school. There is a list of errands to do today. Who is making dinner? The insurance bill is due in two days, etc. For me, the stress of doing things I don’t care about is annoying.
Red stress hurts. Think: at capacity, little left to give. Real-World Example: Co-workers or bosses are moody. Management is not meeting team needs. This is creating more work. And, that work is not supporting the main thing. Instead, it’s creating bureaucracy.
So, when we experience yellow or red stress, what are we trying to get back to?
I propose we want to feel more renewal (recovered capacity). We want connection (a state of trust). We want strength (a really effective response).
We can trade yellow or red stress for Renewal, Connection, and/or Strength. Then, our mindsets are lighter, our relationships are deeper, and our work means more in our soul.
The map of skills for stress is our path to renewal, connection, and strength. Any one or two skills helps us avoid getting lost when that yellow or red stress shows up.
I recommend starting with The Meaning Cheat Sheet Skill here. Then, pick one more skill. Try it out in the next 24 hours. Did either skill help you move from yellow or red stress to green? Share your experience here or send me a message. We can transform stress, together!