Stress is a dynamic condition in which an individual confronts an opportunity, constraint, or demand related to what he or she desires, and for which the outcome is perceived as both uncertain and important. Stress can manifest itself in both positive and negative ways. Stress is said to be positive when the situation offers an opportunity for one to gain something; for example, the psyching up and athlete goes through can be stressful but can lead to maximum performance. When constraints or demands are placed on us, however, stress can become negative. Let us explore these two features constraints and demands.