52 REFLECTIONS ON CHARACTER AND LEADERSHIP
depressive state may be accompanied by changes in appetite or weight,
problems with sleeping (too much or too little), decreased energy,
apathy, lethargy, hopelessness, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, diffi -
culty thinking, an inability to concentrate or make decisions, or recur-
r ing thoug ht s of death a nd su icid a l fa nt a sies. It shou ld be noted, however,
that these mood disturbances are not due to the physiological effects of
drug abuse or medication.
While hypomanics in the depressive state are bereft of energy,
the opposite can be said of them when they are in the manic state.
It is easy to see how executives in a hypomanic mode can revitalize
and move organizations. These people are energetic, fl amboyant, and
expansive. They are positive thinkers, defi ant optimists in the face of
adversity; their glass is always half - full. Furthermore, they rush in
where others fear to tread; they assume risks easily and are willing
to make bold moves. They crave stimulation, novelty, and excitement.
Life is fi lled with meaning for them: they have a purpose, and there
are many things to be done. They make an enormous effort to make
their dreams come true and take others with them in their search for
adventure (Fuller, Torrey, and Knable, 2002 ; Winokur, Clayton, and
Woodruff, 1969 ; Campbell, 1953 ). Given their belief in ultimate pos-
sibility, it is not surprising that following the rules is not their forte.
They know how to beat the system, fi nding creative ways around it.
However, they often underestimate the effort needed to get projects
on their way.
In their manic state, hypomanics usually have an infl ated sense of
self - esteem, as well as an unbending conviction of the correctness and
importance of their ideas. Although this sense of conviction can be used
for the good, their ‘ I ’ m always right ’ way of thinking and behaving
disregards valuable alternatives and contributes to poor judgment. This,
in turn, can lead to chaotic patterns of personal and professional
relationships.
Hypomanics are also extremely social, ready to engage whomever
they encounter. Consequently, they may get caught up in intense and
impulsive romantic or sexual liaisons, even with workplace colleagues.
Compared with more common mortals, hypomanics seem to need very
little sleep; there are too many things to be done. Because their thoughts
may race, often faster than they can articulate them, they may talk more
loudly and rapidly than other people.
What are the consequences of hypomanic characteristics like these?
The increased energy and expansiveness, intensifi ed perceptual aware-
ness, willingness to take risks, and fl uency of thought associated with
hypomania often result in highly productive and creative periods. As a