In the business world, you obviously want to be the best. Being a leader leads to more power and more confidence — not to mention, more money. But according to recent research, this sort of ambition can take a toll on your mental health: Alpha males tend to suffer from much more stress.
As part of the study, researchers observed 125 wild baboons in Kenya’s Amboseli basin for a period of nine years. The baboons, divided in five groups, had their fecal matter measured for cortisol, a stress hormone. Results showed that the alpha baboons – those that acquired the most mates and food – had higher levels of cortisol than the beta baboons. Meanwhile, beta baboons had almost just as many mates and food but lower levels of the stress hormone.
This is important to note because a prolonged state of elevated cortisol levels in humans has been shown to increase heart attack risk, raise cholesterol levels and weaken the immune system. Luckily, there are ways to manage stress without having to revamp your personality. Here are some tips to reduce stress and minimize its effects:
1. Socialize more. People with a strong social network typically have reduced levels of stress because friends and family provide emotional support. Go with your friends to a ball game, go on a family vacation or have lunch with your coworkers. All of these activities can help distract you from your stressors.
2. Make fitness a habit. Regular exercise releases endorphins, which are “feel-good” chemicals that elevate your mood. Working out can also help you decrease body fat and increase muscle mass, which can ultimately boost your confidence. For help starting a fitness program, consider MenScience Boot Camp.
3. Follow a men’s skincare routine. As we mentioned earlier, stress can do significant damage to your body. This includes your skin. Stress has been linked to men’s acne breakouts, wrinkles and other skin problems. By following a men’s skincare routine, you can help control these skin issues and keep looking your best. “Stress and Men’s Acne Breakouts” further explains the relationship between stress and acne.
4. Supplement your diet. Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to improve mood, so consider taking an omega-3 supplement for men to increase your intake. Also, make sure you’re getting all the nutrients your body needs by taking a men’s multivitamin. Supplements are a convenient way to make sure you cover all nutritional bases. Read “The Importance of Omega-3 Fish Oil Fatty Acids” for more on the benefits of omega-3s.
