Do you dream of seeing the day when your business achieves success? Maybe you envision a wonderful life where you have finally reached all your goals.
But for many professionals there is a dark side to those dreams of success. As it turns out achieving your dreams can lead to depression rather than elation.
What’s the likely culprit behind this odd syndrome? It’s a hodgepodge of several factors that work together to pull down the morale of a business manager.
Todd Essig, a psychologist and journalist, argues genetics may play a role, as super achievers often struggle with depression.
Perhaps the more likely culprit is the all-too-human tendency to compare oneself with others. That could very well explain why less-developed countries have less psychic angst. Not a few business executives fall victim to comparing their achievements with super-stars who always seem to garner one accolade after another as they rise through the ranks.
How does an up-and-coming executive avoid this malaise? They must tackle the tendency to detach themselves from ordinary life. It’s imperative that executives actively engage with people from all walks of life. That is what creates a sense of being grounded in those things that matter the most.
Of course the struggle isn’t always about internal angst. The world of business has often been referred to as “dog eat dog.” An unbalanced life filled with too many stresses and not enough of the ordinary moments like those celebrated in greeting-card advertisements can lead to a feeling of malaise and even depression.
One simple secret to success often overlooked in a “climb-the-ladder world” is to enjoy those ordinary moments by finding a work/life balance. Business managers should take the time to appreciate and cultivate ongoing activities that contribute to a wholesome, fulfilling life.