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Clarity, in spite of depression
By Steve Sjogren | June 1, 2006
Perhaps the most common reason leaders lose track of their original vision-definition is the onset of depression. When I use the “D” word I’m not referring to something spiritual, something ethereal, but in all likelihood something physical, something biochemical that is happening chemically in our systems.
As Stuart Smalley was prone to say on Saturday Night Live a few years ago (Al Franken with a blonde wig and powder blue vee-neck sweater), “I am not a professional psychologist but I am a member of several 12 Step groups!” Actually, I have never been in a 12 Step group, but I am very familiar with the symptoms of depression, the terms associated with depression, and the common medications that are prescribed for depression. As a pastor, it certainly is not my job to counsel people, much less to determine if people are depressed. But it is often pretty obvious that people are depressed once you are familiar with the symptoms of this distressing condition
Truth be told, depression is present in leaders at gigantic levels. Many, however, are still fearful or feel shame at the idea of pursuing getting pharmaceutical help in dealing with their problem. The bare truth is literally any human on earth will become depressed in the absence of adequate serotonin in their brains.
Bottom line: We must be our best. We must be good stewards. Whatever it takes, be that, be there. Be strong. Don’t go down. Don’t let any issue draw you away from what you are called to do. You are the only one in all of the world who can do this thing he has called you to do.
You are special! There is only one of you. We are all counting on you to do just one thing: To just be you!
Be you with all of your heart today,
Steve Sjogren
stevesjogren[at]mac.com
Topics: Leadership, Clarity |
