In exploring the mind, I’ve also learnt that the most universal mechanism in our lives that determines whether or not we thrive or falter is our stress mechanism.

As part of the game of life, we experience stress in different measures. However, the stress build-up occurs based on the following:

#1 - A Lack of Security.

Whenever our security needs are threatened, especially of the impending future, it takes some picking up of the pieces in order to move further. Why is this so important? Abraham Maslow first came up with the idea that we all have needs to be fulfilled. Once we fulfill our basic needs like physical and security needs, we will be more able and willing to proceed to the next level of needs in order to generate a higher standard of living. When your security needs get trashed, however, you will go back to primal instincts.

Any person being threatened will feel stress and therefore become very protective and fearful. This changes our modes of behavior from growth to safety. Usually, when in a ’safety’ mode, we tend to operate with heightened awareness of threats to protect ourselves.

#2 - Build Up Of Stress And No Clear Direction

I run many entrepreneurial training programs that focus on building the mindset of the individual. However, I also know that many new entrepreneurs do not have the ability set a clear direction for them. Goal setting increases stress, but a lack of real direction causes more stress. Just because you set a goal doesn’t mean you’re aligned and doesn’t mean that you are better off. Setting a clear ‘reason why’ will literally set you free.

#3 - Neglect

Sometimes when you neglect a part of your lifestyle such as exercise and health, stress creeps in without you realizing. Changing your lifestyle habits may be tedious, but it definitely helps by giving you a more balanced lifestyle than you previously had, shifting your moods dramatically.