Reflections on StGIS Inspiring People Volume 9 – Louis Lewitan
Stress is important and signifies vitality, Louis Lewitan, the French-German Stress Expert, psychologist and Management Advisor explained during his visit to St. Gilgen International School. During special workshops, the psychologist inspired students with ways in which they can convert stressful situations into positive energy.
“There is no such thing as a life without stress. Whether you are a student, teacher, professional athlete or top manager – no one can escape stress.” Mr. Lewitan, who was born in Lyon but resides in Munich, has a long-standing career as a consultant and counsellor, working with influential managers from various sectors. “It is important to recognise how stressful situations influence us, and what we can do to positively channel negative energy. A person who is unaffected by stress, is by definition dead.”
Stress is not an illness and also not a sign of weakness.
Mr.
Lewitan, who regularly interviews prominent politicians, entrepreneurs
and artists for the renowned “Zeit Magazin”, views stress as a normal
reaction to the many challenges of daily life. In fact, positive stress
can be useful and inspiring. “Stress itself is not the problem. Stress
is not an illness and also not a sign of weakness. It comes down to
interpretation, but above all, the possible ways in which we can cope
and whether the stress is perceived as positive or negative”, the
trained psychologist revealed.
The Author of “Stressless” gave the following advice when it comes to managing stress in a positive way: “it is important to differentiate between what is essential and non-essential, and to prioritise things; to challenge oneself, but not to constantly push oneself beyond his or her own limit. The following can help accomplish positive stress management; self-composure, respecting oneself and environment, as well as the people around us.” Louis Lewitan’s final advice to the students was to “occasionally switch their mobile phones to silent or place them on the side for an hour.”
