The Paradox of Pressure: Is Stress a Force for Growth or a Road to Burnout?
03/31/25 • 73 min
In this episode we tackling one of the most fascinating contradictions in our world of creating flow state workplaces: the paradox of pressure: Is stress a force for growth or a road to burnout?
Stress is ubiquitous in both our personal and professional lives. We've all felt it - deadlines, meeting expectations, looking after loved ones. It shows up in different ways: tightness in your chest before a big presentation, the weight of responsibilities piling up, the health consequences, the relentless voice in your head asking, Am I doing enough? Too much of it can break even the strongest among us leading to burnout, exhaustion and disconnection.
According to the Productivity Commission costs associated with these issues are estimated to be between $12.2 billion and $39.9 billion per year in Australia.
At the same time people say that they need a certain level of stress, we hear things like pressure makes diamonds. It can ignite motivation, sharpen focus and unlock a different level of creativity. The paradox is that the same pressure that drives us can also break us—so how do we navigate it? It's clear that this is s topic worth diving into.
Links:
Stress is Enhancing Mindset: Alia Crum
Expanding your visual field: Andrew Huberman
The Science of Cells that never get old: Elizabeth Blackburn
Hofstede's Cultural Dimensions
Contact: corporate-sherpas.au
In this episode we tackling one of the most fascinating contradictions in our world of creating flow state workplaces: the paradox of pressure: Is stress a force for growth or a road to burnout?
Stress is ubiquitous in both our personal and professional lives. We've all felt it - deadlines, meeting expectations, looking after loved ones. It shows up in different ways: tightness in your chest before a big presentation, the weight of responsibilities piling up, the health consequences, the relentless voice in your head asking, Am I doing enough? Too much of it can break even the strongest among us leading to burnout, exhaustion and disconnection.
According to the Productivity Commission costs associated with these issues are estimated to be between $12.2 billion and $39.9 billion per year in Australia.
At the same time people say that they need a certain level of stress, we hear things like pressure makes diamonds. It can ignite motivation, sharpen focus and unlock a different level of creativity. The paradox is that the same pressure that drives us can also break us—so how do we navigate it? It's clear that this is s topic worth diving into.
Links:
Stress is Enhancing Mindset: Alia Crum
Expanding your visual field: Andrew Huberman
The Science of Cells that never get old: Elizabeth Blackburn
Hofstede's Cultural Dimensions
Contact: corporate-sherpas.au
Previous Episode
Ben Dorant | Unlocking growth in the resource industry.
This Basecamp episode features RCR Mining Technologies' Ben Dorant, who shares his unique blend of technical skill and adaptable leadership. We explore industry challenges, the power of cognitive maturity, and practical tools for developing high-performing teams. Learn how to navigate uncertainty, foster a thriving culture, and optimise your team's energy – physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. A must-listen for leaders seeking to thrive in complexity.
Contact: corporate-sherpas.au
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