Depression is not sadness, it is much more than sadness. Depression is often described as nothingness. It is a state of being that grips us firmly, without end in sight. Depression is a hog of our attention, our energy, and our will to move forward. Knowing we are not alone in the experience of depression can provide momentary relief, but most times we just want the empathy to turn into strength that alleviates this weight. Below is a TED talk by Andrew Soloman on his battle and insights with depression. His story-telling propels us into the depths of depression and back out, giving us hope and understanding, whether we are the ones plagued by this destruction or we know and love someone who can't quite get out of the numbness and we are trying to understand. Do you sometimes find that the things you need to get done for work still swirl in your head when you are sitting down for dinner? Maybe you are even laying in bed, unable to fall asleep because your mind won't slow down with the anxieties of work. Transitioning from work to home is a struggle for many. It requires setting boundaries that ideally stop the nagging responsibilities of work so you can focus on yourself, your family, and your friends. Being present in the moments at home allows for the mind to relax, recharge, and engage.
Try out some transitioning activities on the way home from work or immediately upon arriving home. Listen to music or an audio book. Take a walk around the neighborhood. Take a shower to wash away the day. Try different activities each week. You'll find something that takes your mind away and allows you to breathe a sigh of relief. After spending eight hours focused on the tasks of work, not thinking about your job at home can be a task in itself. Did I finish this task? Did I send out that email? Does the boss recognize that I did more than my share? We often want to be so successful in our careers that it can be difficult to think of anything else Monday through Friday.
Work distractions take away from other valuable parts of life, notably relationships and self-care. The health of relationships to family, friends, and self aid in confidence, motivation, and focus on the job. By shutting off work mode while at home, you are better able to recuperate and nourish the mind and body. When the mind and body are calm and nourished, you can give of yourself in a more balanced manner. Take time to identify when work is following you home. Make a note of ideas and know you’ll tackle them the next business day. You need focus and ambition to be successful in your career, but also in your personal life. And a happy, balanced life is worth it, right? |
Elizabeth HammerA healthier, happier you. Archives
April 2020
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