When most people hear the word stress, they think of sleepless nights, weight gain, forgetfulness, and even heart problems. But not all stress is harmful. In fact, there’s a type of stress that can actually help you.

The Power of Positive Stress

Known as eustress, this positive form of stress can boost motivation, focus, and performance. It’s the kind of stress you feel before a big presentation, a job interview, or yes—even standing at the top of a steep ski slope. You’re nervous, maybe even terrified, but also alert, energized, and ready to act.

Research from Stanford psychologist Dr. Kelly McGonigal highlights that how we perceive stress shapes its impact on us. When we believe stress is helpful—a signal our body is gearing up to meet a challenge—we are more likely to experience increased confidence and resilience.¹

Perception Is Key

When your heart races and your palms sweat, instead of interpreting these signals as panic, try viewing them as signs your body is preparing you for action. Your mindset matters. If your internal message is, “I’m getting ready for something important,” you’ll be more likely to use the stress response to your advantage.

A Harvard study found that simply reframing stress as a helpful response improved participants’ performance under pressure and even led to more adaptive cardiovascular responses.²

Embrace the Challenge

Start by welcoming new, slightly uncomfortable situations. It’s natural to feel fear or anxiety in unfamiliar territory—but that doesn’t mean you’re not capable. Visualize yourself tackling the task. Then tell yourself, “I can handle this.” This shift in mindset encourages learning, confidence, and emotional growth.

Importantly, don’t demand perfection from yourself. Expect some trial and error—maybe even a little failure. That’s how growth happens. Each time you face a challenge, your tolerance for stress and your confidence increase.

A Christian Perspective on Stress

From a biblical standpoint, challenges—and the stress they bring—are not wasted. James 1:2–4 reminds us, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” God often uses pressure to shape our character, strengthen our faith, and deepen our dependence on Him.

Instead of fearing stress, we can approach it with trust. Philippians 4:13 reminds us, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” So the next time you’re standing at the top of your mountain, take a deep breath, pray, and step forward—not just in your strength, but in God’s.

References

1. McGonigal, K. (2015). The Upside of Stress: Why Stress Is Good for You, and How to Get Good at It. Avery.

2. Jamieson, J. P., Nock, M. K., & Mendes, W. B. (2012). Changing the conceptualization of stress in social anxiety disorder: Affective and physiological consequences. Journal of Experimental Psychology: General, 141(2), 417–422. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0027398