The Stress Awakens: Tapping Into Your Inner Force for Mental Strength

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Presented at ChiBrrCon 2025 by

Steve Shelton

Inspired by Star Wars: The Force Awakens In the high-stakes world of information technology, professionals often face intense pressure, leading to chronic stress and burnout. This presentation, inspired by Star Wars: The Force Awakens, explores how CIOs, CISOs and IT leaders can tap into their “inner force” to build mental strength and resilience. Participants will learn to recognize stress warning signs and practice techniques like mindful breathing (“Jedi breathing”) to stay calm under pressure. The session also covers mental performance skills to reframe stress as a manageable challenge, enhancing decision-making and focus. Interactive activities, including a quiz to identify hidden stressors, will engage attendees, offering practical tools to reduce stress and foster resilience. By the end, participants will understand the foundational components to manage stress effectively—both individually and within teams—channeling their inner Jedi to thrive in the cybersecurity and technology worlds.