Stress comes with the territory for business owners and corporate executives. Deadlines, high expectations, and constant problem-solving can weigh us down. But how do we know when stress is no longer just a part of the job and starts affecting our performance? Ignoring the signs can lead to mistakes, poor decisions, and eventually burnout. Let’s identify the red flags and explore how we can take back control.
One of the first signs of stress impacting our performance is difficulty concentrating. We might find ourselves rereading the same email or struggling to finish simple tasks. This happens because chronic stress overloads our minds, making it hard to focus. Multitasking becomes less effective, and we may notice more errors creeping into our work. It’s easy to dismiss these moments as minor lapses, but when they become frequent, they’re a sign that stress is taking a toll.
Another warning sign is irritability or emotional outbursts. Stress often shortens our fuse, leading to impatience or frustration with others. A team member missing a deadline or a slight delay in a project can feel like a bigger issue than it really is. This can damage relationships at work and create a tense atmosphere. Over time, unresolved stress can destroy trust and collaboration with colleagues or employees.
Physical exhaustion is another red flag. Stress can leave us feeling drained even after a full night’s sleep. If we’re constantly reaching for caffeine to get through the day, it’s likely that stress is disrupting our energy levels. Physical fatigue can lead to reduced productivity and make it harder to think clearly. We might also notice physical symptoms like headaches, muscle tension, or stomach issues—all signs that stress is affecting not just our minds but our bodies as well.
Procrastination is a less obvious but equally damaging sign. When we’re stressed, the thought of tackling big tasks can feel overwhelming. Instead of diving in, we may avoid them altogether. This can create a backlog of responsibilities, increasing our stress further. Deadlines pile up, and we end up in a cycle where avoiding work leads to more pressure and less time to handle our workload.
Lastly, if we’ve lost enthusiasm for our work, it’s a serious sign that stress is impacting our performance. What once felt exciting or rewarding can begin to feel like a burden. This loss of motivation often comes with a sense of disconnection from our goals or values. We may go through the motions, but without passion or purpose, our performance suffers.
Let’s look at how counselling can help. Take the example of Alex, a business owner running a growing company. Alex started noticing that they were snapping at employees during meetings, missing details in important reports, and feeling too tired to enjoy time with family. Initially, Alex thought working harder would solve the problem, but the stress only worsened. Finally, Alex reached out to a counsellor, who helped identify how stress was affecting their emotions, physical health, and relationships.
Through counselling, Alex learned practical strategies like setting boundaries, prioritising tasks, and recognising early signs of stress. They also worked on mindfulness techniques to regain focus and address feelings of overwhelm. Over time, Alex noticed significant improvements—not only in work performance but also in personal satisfaction. By learning to manage stress effectively, Alex became a stronger leader and rediscovered their enthusiasm for running the business.
If we see ourselves in these signs, it’s time to take action. Stress doesn’t have to derail us. Start by identifying what’s causing the most pressure and addressing it directly. Take breaks, set realistic goals, and practice saying no when we’re stretched too thin. Building a support system—whether it’s through counselling, trusted colleagues, or mentors—can provide perspective and guidance when stress feels overwhelming. By recognising these signs early and taking steps to manage stress, we can protect our performance, health, and relationships. Let’s not wait until stress becomes unmanageable. The sooner we take control, the better equipped we’ll be to handle challenges and succeed on our terms.
Struggling with stress? Your mental health matters. Take the first step toward becoming the best version of yourself—both personally and professionally. Connect with Jonathan Riley at My Practice Counselling and start your journey to clarity, resilience, and growth. Book your session today at https://mypracticecounselling.com.au/ and lead with confidence by prioritising your well-being.