4 Tips to Survive a Recession
On February 15, Dr. Richard Petty, a British doctor at a private clinic for men, said that chronic stress, like that associated with an economic recession, can cause testosterone levels in men to drop. He explained that testosterone contributes to sexual function, circulation, muscle mass, mood, memory and concentration. He said that prolonged stress over things like finances, job security or a hectic lifestyle can cause the body to produce less of the hormone. Lower testosterone levels can cause irritability, lethargy, low sex drive and a lack of concentration.
Donna and I believe that it’s not simply prolonged stress that causes testosterone levels to fall in men – it’s prolonged stress in a situation that seems hopeless. Men are all about producing a win, a success. Men can handle stress indefinitely as long as they believe they are moving toward a win. What’s the difference between the businessman who doubles his business during an economic downturn, and the business owner who goes bankrupt?
Both face stress, but the former doesn’t show any of the signs mentioned above that are associated with low testosterone levels. If he did, he couldn’t produce those results. On the contrary he rises to the challenge. The difference is that the business owner who succeeds sees a path to success. He knows how to succeed or at least believes he can succeed. The one who goes bankrupt, on the other hand, doesn’t and succumbs to just the sort of traits Dr. Petty describes above. Men, therefore, need to be fed a steady diet of wins if they are going to beat the recession.
So what is there to do to ensure people and their relationships get through the recession unscathed? Understanding men and understanding women, or at least a few of their key qualities, is a great start:
1) As a woman, know that your support and trust has more power and influence on a man than the economy ever can. It’s the win he wants most. He will be motivated when he knows you appreciate and trust him. Therefore, to keep him moving forward, find anything in whatever he does that you can be genuinely grateful for, and let him know. This will do wonders for his confidence and his ability to do what needs to be done.
2) When money gets tight and fear starts to settle in, it’s normal to look for what’s wrong and to start blaming. In the same way that nothing motivates a man like his partner’s appreciation and trust, nothing shuts him down faster than her criticism and complaints. Men are far more sensitive than society lets us know.
3) Men, know that if she is criticizing you it’s because she’s afraid and doesn’t feel safe. Try not to take it personally and don’t make her wrong. Take it as a clue that something needs to be addressed. She wants you to be strong. Hold the space, and don’t wade into the fray. You can’t keep the situation from drowning if you’re both caught up in the tide.
4) Both men and women can refuse to participate in the recession. Don’t let outer circumstances shape your life. That power is yours. You’re each others greatest resource. Your attitude is important.
Please feel free to comment and let us know what you think.
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