As the psychological and physical stresses of modern life have steadily increased, many people are cut off from what basic elements of humanity – a network of supportive people, interaction with nature and rewarding work.
Creating Optimism
by B Murray & A Fortinberry
McGraw Hill, 2004
$29.95
As the psychological and physical stresses of modern life have steadily increased, many people are cut off from the basic elements of humanity – a network of supportive people, interaction with nature and rewarding work.
Into the fray steps Creating Optimism: A Proven, Seven-Step Program for Overcoming Depression, which describes a “revolutionary new approach to overcoming depression that has proven far more effective than drugs, psychotherapy, or both combined”.
Based on the authors’ more than 20 years of research and practice, the book is largely a personal guide for individuals in helping them overcome depression. However, it includes a number of useful and very poignant points for people managers. One section on workplace relationships, for example, looks at how an individual’s upbringing directly correlates with emotional intelligence and their ability to form successful relationships in the workplace. Another examines the meaning of work and how individuals can achieve more purpose in life through work that reinforces their self-esteem.
However, unless you’re dealing with a number of depressed employees or have similar problems yourself, Creating Optimism doesn’t necessarily have to be on your ‘must read’ list.
