Distress versus eustress
Stress can manifest itself in one of two forms: distress or eustress. When we think of stress, we usually think of the former kind. We associate stress with the horrible feelings we get when an imminent deadline is looming, or when we unexpectedly lose something (or someone) important.
Eustress, on the other hand, is the combination of the euphoria that follows stress - the acknowledgement of the relief that comes after the imminent deadline is complete, or when an unexpected problem becomes resolved. The immense pleasure of relief can only be possible with the existence of the stress that precedes the pleasure. Stress is actually a gift - it is an opportunity to gain that pleasure.
All you need to know is that it'll be your prize once you crush that stressor of yours. That should be enough to put a smile on your face, and put things into perspective:
It's just a game for you to win. Go win it.
