Let’s agree not to go into May with last month’s tension or without a plan to avoid new stress. In fact, let’s take this time to lay the groundwork for one now. Stress is a feeling of emotional or physical tension. Stress by itself isn’t the problem; in fact, stress can be a powerful motivator. After all, that’s what the “fight or flight” response is – a response to stress. The issue becomes when you can’t manage your stress.