On my business trip to Boston this week, I’ve been keenly aware of the transportation choices. Driving, biking, the “T”, and the Trolley. But battling 90 plus temperatures is almost enough to make me drive (with air conditioning blasting) to Harvard Square – almost. Yesterday, a colleague and I compromised. We drove to the “T” and took the train into Harvard. We figured we’d save some gas, along with having a taste of air conditioning which was all but brief – and didn’t make up for the mental stress that ensued.
We weren’t in the car more than a few seconds when we immediately looked at the gas gauge which read – less than a quarter of a tank. It was off to the gas station and the four-bucks-plus a gallon prices which triggered an immediate spiral of dialogue into, “This is just ridiculous, maybe we should have taken the trolley to the train,” I said exasperated, to which my colleauge responded,”Maybe we should have just stayed home.”
The conversation then dipped into talk of recession, food prices, credit card overload, and the miniscule amount of money left in our retirement funds. It was depressing, and quite frankly gave me a head ache which lasted well into the evening. Then I saw a new poll just released by The Associated Press and AOL which reinforced my diagnosis of my head ache – I was suffering with a bout of “debt stress” which was not helping in my quest for worklife balance.
The health report claims that due to rising debt, from 10 to 16 million people are suffering with physical ailments such as digestion problems, ulcers, anxiety, depression and stress. In fact, in an index linked to this poll, claims debt stress is on the rise - 14% higher than it was in 2004.
The findings of “debt stress” are not surprising. And arguably, high gas prices is just part of the current economic chaos. But it’s precisely that, which reminds me of the need for a different kind of fuel. Our inner fuel tank which needs a shot of resilience, stamina, and stillness. Whether in the workplace or in business, we’re all seeking inner calm that allows us to respond the the tumult around us, without reacting in a negative way or allowing our bodies to take the brunt of the stress. But that requires patience, tolerance, and a new way of doing things.
We spend so much time, with good reason, worrying about our bills and how we are going to pay for the gas to fuel our cars – that we neglect our own bodies and minds. Whether it’s exercise, meditating, knitting or just finding an enjoyable hobby – creating our own fuel of stamina and resilience might make the gas lines a bit easier to bare. Anyone for a walk?
