New York State Residents: Could a Little Stress Help You Grow?

Have you ever tried something that felt hard at first but left you feeling proud afterward? A new study looked at how people take on challenges and why some stressful moments can feel rewarding.

What “Good Stress” Feels Like

The study describes “good stress” as feeling challenged, excited and involved. It may come from trying a new activity or working through something that feels difficult.

Learning a Skill Can Be a Challenge

Learning something new was one of the most common activities people in the survey had tried. That could mean taking a class, learning a language or trying a new recipe. It can be frustrating at first, but finishing the task can leave you feeling proud.

Physical Challenges Can Bring a Sense of Accomplishment

High-intensity interval training was another popular activity. It involves short bursts of harder exercise. They also found that nearly half of the people surveyed take on a physical challenge at least once a week.

Difficult Conversations Can Matter, Too

Not every challenge involves exercise. About two-thirds of people surveyed said they take on a mental challenge at least once a week. That could include having an important conversation, even when it feels uncomfortable.

What the Study Found in New York

The survey covered 40 major U.S. cities, but it did not report results for New York State as a whole. New York City was the only place in the state included. It ranked eighth for “good stress,” with a score of 94.63 out of 100, according to the Novaalab study.