I read an article recently in which the author, Ed Cafasso, a senior vice president of MS&L, mentioned an Old Italian saying: A tutto c'e rimedio, fuorche alla morte - there is a cure for everything except death.
He went on to point out that during these current economic trials, we can put our time to good use while we wait for the things to improve.
I agree. At Southern Miss we are addressing our budget issues seriously and making every effort to minimize the effects of our recent cuts. It might be good to spend at least some of our time doing the things we've been promising ourselves we would do "when things slow down."
Cafasso suggested several options. Volunteer. Learn more about the business structure of your company (in our case, the university.) Start a blog. Start Twittering. Update your web site. Go through old files, emails and proposals. I would add setting up time for professional development to the list.
The article concluded with some common sense advice:
"The mantra 'don't worry-- be happy' is probably too naïve when unemployment rates are setting records each month. There are, after all, bills to pay and mouths to feed. But sitting in a darkened office with your door closed is an equally unwise response.
"As they say in Italy, Siccome la casa brucia, riscaldiomoci--since the house is on fire, let us warm ourselves."