In this episode, we dive into something that impacts everyone's lives: stress. Over the years, I've realized that part of fostering self-love is knowing the difference between helpful and harmful stress, especially given our contradictory cultural messaging around performance.In this episode:The myth that all stress is essentially the same How beneficial stress (eustress) differs fundamentally from harmful stress (distress) Four qualities that make stress actually helpful rather than harmful A perspective shift to recognize whether you're placing yourself in growth-promoting or depleting situationsThe stress of dysfunctional relationships isn't the same as learning a new piece of music. The stress of a toxic workplace isn't the same as strength training. Beneficial stress actually strengthens us - physically, mentally, and emotionally - while harmful stress depletes us.What makes helpful stress actually helpful? It's at an intensity we can handle, it's controlled, it promotes growth, and we have adequate time to recover afterward. Contrast that with harmful stress, which exceeds our capacity, is relentless, weakens us, and offers no recovery time.This episode offers a clear framework for distinguishing between the fire that forges and the fire that burns, helping you make choices that foster genuine wellbeing and growth.Ready to transform your relationship with stress? Learn about the path from burnout to clarity designed specifically for professionals navigating sustainable success at mybreathingmind.com.My Breathing Mind Podcast is created for professionals navigating stress, burnout, and the journey back to peace and purpose. All episodes are written and produced by Ruth Kao Barr, burnout specialist, leadership & wellbeing coach.