Stoic Conduct as an Intervention for Stress Reduction in Executives

Abstract

Executives in their working lives are exposed to a variety of stressors that, in the absence of suitable coping strategies, culminate in chronic stress and consequent health disorders. In healthcare and in sales in particular, executives are affected by burnout, from which follows an urgent need for effective stress-management measures. Many existing measures, however, operate in isolation and do not always fit the individual life situation of the executive. A promising intervention takes the form of a method grounded in stoic conduct, comprising exercises for the identification of priorities, for dealing with emotions, and for accepting the uncontrollable. The aim of this holistic strategy is to reduce stress in the long term and to support executives in their personal lifestyle. Stress can be viewed from biological, psychological, and social perspectives; coping strategies encompass instrumental preventive measures as well as cognitive and regenerative methods. Stoic conduct fosters self-control and focus on what is essential, independence from material goods and from the pursuit of social recognition, and the acceptance of one's own emotions. Added to these are social engagement and the practice of gratitude as stoic principles. The intervention comprises seven stoic principles which, through regular self-reflection, the identification of distractions, and the conscious perception of emotions, contribute to stress reduction. Techniques such as the setting of priorities, the questioning of social recognition and of consumption, and the practice of gratitude support executives in recognising and reducing their stressors. The efficacy of the intervention can be evaluated by measuring cortisol levels and by capturing chronic stress. A continuous adaptation of the intervention to individual needs is decisive for long-term success. Despite a high initial integration effort, the intervention is suited for sustainable stress reduction. As an alternative, isolated mindfulness practice is available — targeted, clearly defined, and effective. Further research is required to examine whether stoic conduct, depending on various influencing factors, is suitable as an effective method for the mitigation of chronic stress in executives.