Stress + Rest = Growth
The magic formula for growth
Those who have been into any form of weight lifting have probably heard this equation at some point. Stress + Rest = Growth. In order to get stronger, or grow bigger muscles, you have to stress your muscles (=lift heavy). And just as important is to rest, that’s when the muscles repair themselves (and actually grow).
When I got into endurance training, I experienced the same thing from a slightly different angle. I had to balance strength, endurance, and rest. Because I trained so much, I had to make sure I didn’t stress too much. In other words, I couldn’t just go and push as hard as I could every workout. The long workouts needed to be easy, and the strength/”all-out” workouts needed to be short.
Applied elsewhere
At some point, I noticed that I’m doing the exact same thing at work. At times, I take on things that are slightly outside my comfort zone where I need to work harder for a period of time to learn a specific thing/skill I’m lacking. Stress. After the project is finished, I take some time off and reflect on the things I learned. Rest. I learned a new skill. Growth.
From there, I realized that the same thing applies to everything.
In a relationship, you need to have those difficult discussions. Stress. And you also need time to reflect on your own. Rest. On the other end is a stronger relationship. Growth.
I’m currently learning a new language. I’m studying every day. Stress. If I do it too much, I’m not learning as much (that might just be me), so I need some time off as well to let my brain process what I’ve learned. Rest. After enough repetitions, I will be able to say that I can speak that language. Growth.
The equation can literally be applied to anything.
