I have been highly uninspired, unmotivated, uncreative (actually I believe that is non-creative, but I'm going for alliteration points here), and unproductive over the last few weeks. I believe it may be a bit of SAD. SAD is seasonal affective disorder.
I have noticed that over the years I have hit "low" times during February-April. During these times I would experience a sense of lack of motivation. My energy levels would dip very often. Sometimes I would have full blown episodes of depression. I always believed that it had more to do with school (college and seminary). I attributed it to overload or burnout. But after seminary, I saw the same patterns occurring in my role as pastor. Again, I attributed to overload (post Christmas burnout, working with curriculum deadlines, etc.).
But I believe that SAD may lie behind this. The hypothesis regarding SAD is that light plays a role in the affective condition of a body. The idea is that because of diminished light during winter months, some bodies react by entering a depressive state.
My family has dealt with depression. It is a real manifestation of a biochemical condition within the body. I have been fortunate enough to not face a medical/chemical treatment for my condition. I try to fight mine by getting as much natural light as possible. Exercise and good diet can also make a big difference.
But I am trying to kick it in the behind today. So, perhaps this week can be a little more productive.
I have noticed that over the years I have hit "low" times during February-April. During these times I would experience a sense of lack of motivation. My energy levels would dip very often. Sometimes I would have full blown episodes of depression. I always believed that it had more to do with school (college and seminary). I attributed it to overload or burnout. But after seminary, I saw the same patterns occurring in my role as pastor. Again, I attributed to overload (post Christmas burnout, working with curriculum deadlines, etc.).
But I believe that SAD may lie behind this. The hypothesis regarding SAD is that light plays a role in the affective condition of a body. The idea is that because of diminished light during winter months, some bodies react by entering a depressive state.
My family has dealt with depression. It is a real manifestation of a biochemical condition within the body. I have been fortunate enough to not face a medical/chemical treatment for my condition. I try to fight mine by getting as much natural light as possible. Exercise and good diet can also make a big difference.
But I am trying to kick it in the behind today. So, perhaps this week can be a little more productive.
Comments
I tend to enjoy a good wallowin' in self-pity seasonally. Like you mentioned getting up off my hind quarters and actually doing something can help my frame of mind.
After each assignment from God, Jesus paused, intentionally. Jesus went to the Lord to get his instruction. What would the Lord have you do? Where does He lead you? How can you live in His glory in your current assignment?