People often say that stress is a motivator. What we're referring to when we say this is really better described as stimulation and engagement.

Stress is the negative whirlwind of emotions that gets imposed on top of our stimulation and engagement.

Some people are so used to experiencing stress that they don't remember what life was like without it.

We need to distinguish between stress and stimulation. Having deadlines, setting goals, and pushing yourself to perform at capacity are stimulating. Stress is when you're anxious, upset, or frustrated, which dramatically reduce your ability to perform.

You can't tell yourself that your stress is produced in your head and feel better. You still need to learn how to create a change.

Remember that stress doesn't come from what's going on in your life. It comes from your thoughts about what's going on in your life.