Stephen H Baum Leadership

There is a lot of talk these days about the economy dropping from recession into depression. There is plenty in the press that is making some people more cautious and prudent in spending and finances, plenty that is putting some people in economic survival mode. All are trying to cope as best they can. But there is a depression inside us that is less visible.

Over the past few weeks, I have encountered more than a few business leaders and friends whose symptoms include being distracted more often and more easily, having less energy, cutting back on doing things they enjoy, having trouble sustaining focus, feeling overwhelmed. Very few believe, admit, or otherwise engage the possibility that they are suffering from mild or worse depression that is affecting their physiology and their judgment as well as their mood and behavior.

Now is the time to look in the mirror and be more self-aware. And if you are among those with depression on-set or further along, to deal with it actively. Each of us has our own active ways of dealing with it once we declare it: physical exercise, gratitude exercises (what am I grateful for this week?), quiet sitting clearing the mind of all thoughts (aka meditation), an overnight with spouse to someplace treasured, hug a family member, read something that takes you out of time and place, play an instrument, do some cooking or baking, take your work team out to do something enjoyable together, buy a hobby kit and construct a model. Find your own now and carve out the time do so something active about it.

That’s my view. What’s yours?