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Inspiration

Helping others through the holidays

s one year comes to a close and another begins, malaise that pass without intervention. That doesn't mean
there tends to be a prevailing spirit of good- you can't be helpful at these times, though. As a payments
will and optimism stemming from diverse professional, you can apply the same strengths that make
A traditions across the globe. Many people feel you good in your career to boost someone's mood.
buoyed at this time and ready to embark on refreshed
goals both personal and professional. One thing you're already good at is refraining from making
assumptions. You might be in great spirits because, for
But that isn't the case for everyone. For a variety of example, you've received a hefty holiday bonus, but that's
factors, the holidays trigger upset feelings rather than joy, not necessarily the case for people you may encounter
bringing to mind loss instead of blessings. For those who during the day.
are contending with chronic depression, the holidays can
be especially challenging. And that leads to the next skill you can apply: listening
with your full attention. The goal isn't to end up with a
Sometimes, it's obvious by a person's behavior that they're merchant having an emotional breakdown in your arms,
going through a rough patch; sometimes, however, a but you can listen well enough so the person you're
person can appear to be well adjusted on the outside but interacting with feels heard. That alone can lift a person's
on the inside be suffering. Many people can be highly mood. Bringing an individual's attention to the present
productive despite inner turmoil. moment by admiring something in the decor, for example,
can also be surprisingly helpful.
One such person is Bruce R. Ross, whose book, Breaking
Free of Depression's Grip: A Powerful Success Story, will For family and friends who are going through a tough
be published in January by IC Publishing. In the book, time, you can help them locate appropriate resources in
Ross, now retired from his position as a CFO in the credit your community, as well as online. If your efforts are
union sector, shares what it was like to be diagnosed resisted, don't take it personally. It's often difficult for a
with depression, the dangers of falling into despair, person in need of help to accept that reality.
the significance of staying close to family and friends,
and how he pursued every avenue to find better mental In any event, it's good to remember that kindness is always
health. Ross cites the critical importance of his boss, who appropriate. And on that note, I hope you thoroughly enjoy
supported his efforts to "contain and control the effects of the rest of the year-end holidays and that 2022 brings you
depression" so he could "carry out the complex fiduciary and yours both joy and prosperity.
duties he was called upon to complete day after day."

Use what you already know
This book was crafted to give hope and inspiration to
people experiencing depression, but it would probably not
be helpful to suggest it to someone you don't know well. Kate Gillespie, President and CEO
Many people experience fleeting periods of sadness or

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