Ever since I can remember, I’ve had what you might call “high-pressure” jobs. Working in marketing comes with its own set of unique challenges—tight budgets, performance targets, team dynamics, and the constant need to be innovative. But if I’m being honest, my stress doesn’t end at work. I stress about being a good mom, a good partner, a good citizen, and even just a good person. The underlying reason? I care. A lot.
But here’s the thing: Is caring too much a problem? Can we separate caring from stressing? I’ve been thinking a lot about this, especially in the context of my work. When you genuinely care about your customers, your work naturally gets better. But that also means there’s a certain amount of stress that comes with caring deeply.
So, is stress always a bad thing? Not necessarily. Stress can mean you’re passionate, engaged, and truly invested in what you’re doing. It’s a sign that you’re alive and that what you do matters.
For me, the best way to manage stress has always been running. Now, I’m not the fastest runner out there, and I’m definitely not training to run the marathon in three hours, but running has always been my escape. It’s where I find clarity, where ideas flow, and where I can hit the mental reset button. There’s something about putting one foot in front of the other that just works wonders for my mood and perspective.
But here’s the twist: while I was injured and couldn’t run for two long years, I completely forgot how to decompress. Instead, I threw myself into overworking, which only made the stress even worse. That experience taught me just how crucial it is to have a healthy outlet to release the pressure.
Now that I’m back to running, even a quick jog around the park can make a world of difference. It’s like a breath of fresh air for my mind. It helps me reconnect with my creativity and face challenges with a clearer head.
To my fellow marketing professionals (and anyone else dealing with high-pressure environments), my advice is simple: (I know you’ve heard this a thousand times before) Find your own “magic weapon” to manage stress. Whether it’s running, yoga, painting, or even just taking a walk to clear your head—find something that helps you recharge.
Caring about your work is a strength, but it’s essential to balance that with caring for yourself. Because the truth is, you can’t pour from an empty cup.
So, embrace that stress—it’s proof that you care and that you’re committed. But also make time for what keeps you grounded. Your mind, your work, and your loved ones will thank you for it.
#StressManagement #MarketingLife #RunningTherapy #SelfCare
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