April is Stress Awareness Month—a perfect time to pause and reflect on how we handle the pressures of daily life. As someone who has spent years studying (and living) how elite performers prepare for high-stakes moments, I’ve learned that the stress-coping strategies they use under extreme pressure can help all of us better manage everyday stress.
In my doctoral research, I explored how elite athletes and military special operators cope with stress before stepping onto their respective stages—the athletic field or the battlefield. What my research found wasn’t magic—it was a set of clear, practical habits that anyone can adopt to handle everyday stress better.
Here are three key strategies used by elite performers that can help you handle stress better this month (and beyond):
🌿 Have a Routine
A steady routine grounds you. Elite performers adhere to a strict, daily routine as they prepare to compete. Whether it’s a morning ritual, a pre-meeting habit, or an evening wind-down, routines help the brain shift into a calmer, more focused state. They anchor us, especially when the world around us feels unpredictable.
🧭 Control What You Can Control
Elite performers are masters of focusing on what’s within their power. They don’t waste energy worrying about the unknown—they double down on preparation, attitude, and effort. You can do the same: control your calendar, mindset, environment, and boundaries to control the unknown better.
🎨 Use Healthy, Adaptive Distractions
Yes, a distraction can be a good thing—when it’s intentional and healthy. Exercise, music, family, creativity, nature, connection, faith… aren’t escapes. They’re resets. A well-timed mental break can bring perspective and renewed energy when everyday stress builds.
As we head into Easter—a time of renewal and reflection—it’s a meaningful moment to reset, regroup, and recharge.
Happy Easter! I wish you clarity, calm, and the courage to care for yourself this month … and beyond!
#StressAwarenessMonth #MentalWellness #PerformancePsychology #SelfCare #EasterReset
