In this podcast, Alia Crum discusses how stress can have enhancing qualities on our cognitive functioning, physical health, and interpersonal interactions. She shares three steps to embrace the benefits of stress and explores the concept of developing adaptive mindsets. The speaker also reflects on their experience as a leader, TED Talk preparation, and the importance of authenticity in communication.
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Quick takeaways
Embracing stress as a natural response can enhance performance and behavior.
Developing adaptive mindsets by reframing beliefs about stress fosters resilience and growth in parenting and leadership roles.
Deep dives
The Influence of Mindsets on Actions and Behaviors
Mindsets are core assumptions that shape how we perceive reality, expect outcomes, and set goals. By understanding our core assumptions, we can shift our mindset from viewing stress as debilitating to seeing it as a natural response that can enhance our performance and behavior. This shift allows us to harness stress to address our goals effectively. Public health messaging and societal beliefs often portray stress as harmful, but reframing stress as a positive force can empower us to thrive under pressure.
Shaping Adaptive Mindsets in Parenting and Leadership
In parenting and leadership roles, it is essential to focus on developing adaptive mindsets rather than merely influencing behavior. Instead of trying to persuade others to change, we should help them reframe their beliefs about challenges and stress. By embracing stress and conflict and discussing their underlying values and purpose, individuals can better handle difficult situations and grow stronger. This approach fosters resilience, open-mindedness, and growth in both children and employees.
Putting Purpose and Authenticity at the Center of Effective Communication
Successful communication requires three essential ingredients: presence, authenticity, and openness. Being fully present in the moment enables us to connect deeply with ourselves and others. Authenticity allows us to stay true to our values and intentions, fostering genuine connections. Finally, openness to learning and adapting in our communication ensures that we listen, understand, and respond effectively. By embodying these qualities, we can be our best selves and create meaningful connections in our interactions.
“Stress is natural,” says Alia Crum, an assistant professor of psychology at Stanford. “Stress is inevitable when you’re living a life that’s connected with things you care about. And learning how to embrace it, learning how to work with it is really what helps us thrive and grow and perform at our highest level.”
In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, lecturer and podcast host Matt Abrahams talks with Crum about her work as the principal investigator at the Stanford Mind & Body Lab, where she is studying how people can benefit from stress. “There’s a whole side of stress that shows that it can have enhancing qualities on our cognitive functioning, our physical health, and on how we behave and interact with others,” she says.