Which phrase correctly describes cognitive stress?

Cognitive stress refers to the mental strain that individuals experience when they encounter challenges, demands, or pressures that are beyond their coping abilities. This type of stress can manifest as worrying or ruminating about tasks that need to be completed, deadlines, or other responsibilities. It often hampers one's ability to think clearly, focus, and perform tasks efficiently.

Worrying about everyday tasks is a direct reflection of cognitive stress, as it indicates that an individual may be overwhelmed by their responsibilities, leading to heightened anxiety and mental exhaustion. This mental state often detracts from productivity and can impair decision-making capabilities.

In contrast, the other phrases suggest positive or neutral states of mind that do not relate to the experience of cognitive stress. Increased creativity and productivity, feeling peaceful and content, and being highly motivated and goal-oriented all imply a healthy, stress-free or positive mental state that contrasts sharply with the characteristics of cognitive stress.