Desserts, Stress, and the Sweet Side of Sales
In today’s world, juggling societal challenges and their ripple effects, it’s no surprise that many of us feel a heightened baseline of anxiety. Inside sales professionals are no exception; our fast-paced roles can amplify both the good and bad sides of stress.
This brings me back to a reflective moment I shared years ago: “It’s a playful reminder that stress, much like desserts, can be indulgent or overwhelming depending on how we approach it.”
The Positive Power of Stress in Sales
In sales—and life—stress isn’t always a bad thing. It can be the driving force that helps us get off the metaphorical couch and take action. Newton’s First Law reminds us that without an external push, we stay in place. In sales, this external push might be a quota, a deadline, or the thrill of closing the deal.
Here’s how to channel stress into productive energy:
- Tap into motivation: Understand what’s driving the pressure, smile, and get started.
- Embrace the momentum: Let that initial push keep you moving forward.
- Stay goal-oriented: Ensure your actions align with measurable progress toward your objective (personal, quota-based, whatever you’re working to achieve).
When Stress Turns Sour
On the flip side, unchecked stress can lead to overwhelm. Instead of driving momentum, it can leave you stuck in a cycle of inaction. This is when stress shifts from helpful to harmful.
Break the cycle with these steps:
- Prioritize: Write down your tasks and focus on what matters most.
- Take a small step: Accomplish one thing—no matter how small—to create forward motion.
- Build on small wins: Keep stacking those small actions, and the big goals will follow.
The Sales Sweet Spot
Stress doesn’t have to be a roadblock; it can be a stepping stone. Embrace the good stress, manage the bad stress, and treat yourself along the way—whether it’s with progress, success, or even a literal dessert (I’m an ice cream fan myself).
Now, take the first step toward your goals. You’ve got this. When you’re done, don’t forget to enjoy a little dessert!
You’ve earned it,
Lynn