Stress and ambition often go hand in hand. Pushing boundaries, setting big goals, and holding yourself to high standards is exhilarating—until it’s not. Somewhere along the way, stress creeps in, stealing the joy from your success and leaving you wondering: Am I doing enough? Am I even on the right path?

Here’s the good news: stress isn’t a sign of failure. It’s a signal. A call to realign, reflect, and refocus. One common source of stress is the gap between what you can control and what you think you can control. Learning to navigate this gap is the key to succeeding and thriving.

Stress and Inaction: Why We Feel Stuck

One major source of stress is inaction over things you have control over. Maybe you’re procrastinating on a big decision or avoiding that difficult conversation at work. You know action would move you forward, but fear or overwhelm keeps you stuck.

Research supports this: when we avoid addressing tasks or problems, our brains perceive the unresolved issue as a threat. The result? Chronic stress. Taking small steps to resolve these issues, like sending an email, setting a boundary, or simply clarifying your next move, can dramatically reduce stress.

For example, studies on procrastination show that avoiding action creates more anxiety than the task itself. Tackling one thing you’ve been putting off can give you a sense of control and momentum, helping you stress less and accomplish more.

When Action Isn’t the Answer

But here’s the flip side: not all stress comes from inaction. Sometimes, you’re stressed because you’re doing too much, like trying to control things beyond your influence. Whether it’s a company-wide decision, a colleague’s attitude, or global events, there are forces you can’t change. Stressing over these uncontrollable factors drains your energy and leaves you feeling powerless.

The trick is to know the difference between what’s within your control and what’s not. Psychologists call this perceived control, and it’s been shown to lower stress levels. Instead of striving to solve everything, focus on what you can realistically influence. Accept the rest with grace.

How to Break Free From Stress Without Losing Ambition

So, how do you balance ambition with well-being? Here are three steps to help you succeed and feel fulfilled:

1. Take Action on What You Can Control: Choose one small, meaningful step toward resolving a lingering issue. Even incremental progress boosts confidence and reduces stress.
2. Let Go of What You Can’t Control: Ask yourself, “Can I truly influence this?” If the answer is no, practice acceptance. Journaling, quiet reflection, or even talking with a mentor can help shift your perspective.
3. Redefine Success: Success isn’t about controlling everything. It’s about focusing your energy on what truly matters. I believe this is our purpose, relationships, and well-being. By prioritizing these, you create a sense of fulfillment that no external achievement can match.

Stress is a natural part of the journey for those seeking to awaken and reach their potential, but it doesn’t have to consume you. You can reach your goals and enjoy the process by acting on what counts and releasing what doesn’t. Remember, success isn’t just about what you achieve. It’s about how you feel along the way.

So, take a deep breath and a realistic look at your circumstances. Then, take one purposeful step forward, committed to your goals yet open to what happens.

Jo-Aynne Von Born, Leadership and Executive Coach

Reprinted from my weekly newsletter, Awaken Your Potential. Join here to receive for free.