Quitting your job and flying to Central America is risky. If his life improves from there, then it was getting unstuck. If it gets worse or goes back to the same, then it was a manic episode.
History written by the victors!
I sometimes feel like I am in the same position as you were: > I had the uncomfortable conversation with my business partner to tell them I no longer have passion for it and am leaving them the decision to continue or quit.
When I feel burned out and/or unpassionate by my work, I automatically think about leaving it behind and move on, but after some rest (and discussion) I usually come to another easier-on-my-mind perspective which alleviates me, at least for some time. But I am worried I am just making compromises with myself in order to stay stuck in my comfort zone -- instead of going for more radical changes.
Cool article btw, thank you.
I can relate to what you're describing and can only speak from my own journey. The recurring thought of needing change haunted me for years. Financial stability did play a crucial role in allowing me the flexibility to make significant changes. One of the toughest challenges was the idea of letting go of something I had poured so much into over the years.
Before launching my business 6 years ago, I faced a similar crossroads while feeling trapped in an unsatisfying job. With just three months of savings, I took the leap into starting my company, which, fortunately, turned out well. It underscores that there isn't a universal solution; it really depends on each individual's circumstances.
What pushed me to start writing this newsletter was a profound sense of lacking purpose. That feeling of purposelessness eventually outweighed the fear of stepping away from the business I had built.
I hope sharing this provides some clarity.
Agree. Assigning pathologizing is mostly based on whether it affects your life in a negative way. If it doesn't (and it's not simply deferring or hiding the bad outcomes), the it's not the pathology. Harm to self and others is where hypomania gets distinguished