PERFORMANCE VS STRESS

​PERFORMANCE VS STRESS GRAPH

Youthful impressions were that climbing the corporate ladder was the primary pathway to success in what seemed a more predictable world .  That panic and frazzle represented a productive life .    That busyness meant fulfillment.  A candle burning at both ends was fashionable.   These were some of the perspectives partly dictated by the culture and expatriate norms we lived with ,  a young family with growing needs in an environment of zero social security.    Thank you universe for seeing us through those years .

The double edge of technology simplifies some tasks ,  while accelerating the pace of others  e.g. response times ,  putting tremendous pressure on any workforce.  Replies , decisions , actions have to be fast and furious.  Wimbledon throughout the day.   

Looking back as a semi centennial , I understand and appreciate the need for a better balanced approach to life and work ,  at any stage.    Tapping into that unbeatable joy of the present moment .  Self care as important as serving others , if not more.     It takes a pandemic to make us realize that everything is relative , short lived and subject to change at a moment’s notice.    

This point was driven home by a graph I came across recently , and have reproduced below.  The sweet-spot of optimal performance , growth and fulfillment lies in balance and the MIDDLE road.