Tension is a valuable tool for problem-solving. A situation requires a different solution than the ones we had that didn’t work. When one side argues about a solution, the other side plays the devil’s advocate on why it isn’t going to work.
The opposing sides create tension that activates people to think differently, seek alternatives, and ask questions for better answers.
When we eventually agree on the solution, tension goes away.
Stress, on the other hand, is the complex reactions that affect our physical well-being. It involves hormone changes, irregular heart rate, and various coping mechanisms. Everyone’s stress response looks and works differently.
Ways to relieve stress include: breathing exercises, emotional regulation techniques, physical exercises, channeling through creative outlets, etc.
While we seek tension for curiosity and engagement, we fight stress to protect our health and well-being.
