Hello,

Here’s some news: stress doesn’t discriminate by age, gender, or professional level. We’re all exposed to multiple stress factors in our daily lives. However, when stress becomes the norm rather than an occasional occurrence, the consequences can be catastrophic. That’s why I want to share my personal experience with stress and how I’ve managed to overcome it.​

My Story

A few years ago (and for several years!), I found myself in a relationship that constantly dragged me into cycles of stress. Although I’ve always been passionate and dedicated to my work, I couldn’t perform at my best. I began suffering from insomnia and persistent, intrusive thoughts. To the outside world, everything seemed “perfect,” but internally, I felt exhausted. I had lost my physical energy and was gaining weight uncontrollably. I fulfilled my roles as a mother and friend but felt the need to always be available and productive, never allowing myself to rest. Stress had become my natural state, and peace seemed like an unattainable luxury.​

Everything changed one day while walking in Paris when I experienced my first panic attack. I felt like I couldn’t breathe and, for a moment, truly believed I was going to die. That day, I realized I needed to do something, although I didn’t yet know what. I had already tried psychologists and other therapies without success. Then, someone close to me mentioned a coach in my city, and I decided to give it a try. Although her method was somewhat esoteric for me, I acknowledge that, for the first time, I felt a significant internal change. This experience helped me understand that there were other ways to address stress and that results could come faster than I had imagined.​

After a few sessions, I became interested in coaching. I tried different styles and, through personalized sessions, learned to identify my stress triggers and develop strategies to manage them. I discovered that I could regain control of my life.I even made decisions that previously seemed impossible, such as leaving that harmful relationship and changing careers to one that offered me more freedom and mental peace.​

Identifying Stress Triggers

The first step to alleviating stress is recognizing its causes. In my case, it was primarily very close toxic relationships—some I could eliminate, others I had to learn to manage. My lack of boundaries and desire to please had allowed many people to take advantage of me. My professional area was neglected, even though my mind was overflowing with ideas.I knew I had to do something to express my creativity and generate income.​

Coaching allowed me to identify my childhood wounds and take responsibility for them, rebuild my boundaries, and recognize my strengths. From there, I built a professional project aligned with my essence and values. I also learned the methodology of radical forgiveness—a transformative process. Coaching turned my life around 180 degrees; although everything seemed disordered at first, it ultimately allowed me to put everything in its place. Some important friendships disappeared, and I moved to a place that reflected my true self.​

There was no magic, just years of internal work that gradually manifested in my reality, like a 3D printer shaping a new life.​

Stress is like an alarm indicating that something serious is happening and that we need to protect ourselves. Stress serves a function! If we don’t address that alarm, our body will make us pay with symptoms like excessive sweating, tachycardia, headaches, hair loss, hives, stomach pains, panic attacks, or even more severe illnesses. Don’t wait until you reach a critical situation; seek help when your body sends persistent stress signals.​

Coaching Strategies to Manage Stress

Coaching offers personalized tools to manage stress. There’s no universal formula, as each person is unique. However, everything begins with understanding the causes of stress and then learning to release the accumulated tension in the body.​Taylor & Francis Online+5boldly.app+5Wikipédia+5

Some strategies I use include:

• Establishing clear boundaries: Learning to say “no” when necessary and protecting your energy and time.​
• Practicing mindfulness: Anchoring yourself in the present, connecting with calmness and enjoyment.​
• Delegating tasks: Recognizing your strengths and those of others, and relying on your team.​
• Prioritizing self-care: Making rest and recreation an essential part of your life.​

These strategies significantly helped me reduce my stress levels and improve my overall well-being.​

Benefits of Coaching in Stress Management

Coaching not only provided me with practical tools but also offered a safe space to explore my emotions and challenges. With the support of my coach, I developed greater self-confidence and resilience.​

Studies have shown that coaching can improve stress management, increase job satisfaction, and promote a healthy work-life balance. For example, a study conducted by Grant, Curtayne, and Burton (2009) found that solution-focused executive coaching significantly enhanced psychological well-being and resilience among participants. ​Taylor & Francis Online

As a certified EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) practitioner, I can also help you dissolve chronic stress and trauma in a few sessions, depending on your case.​

Conclusion

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by stress, remember that you’re not alone and that effective resources are available to help you. Coaching can be a powerful tool to regain your inner peace and live a more balanced life.​

I’m here to accompany you on this journey toward well-being. If you’d like to learn more or book a session, don’t hesitate to write to me.​

With love,

Rita

APA Reference:

Grant, A. M., Curtayne, L., & Burton, G. (2009). Executive coaching enhances goal attainment, resilience, and workplace well-being: A randomized controlled study. The Journal of Positive Psychology, 4(5), 396–407. https://doi.org/10.1080/17439760902992456​Taylor & Francis Online+3digitalwolfgram.widener.edu+3boldly.app+3