[Douglas] Tieman said that the very character traits that make executives successful can also lead to their belief that they can overcome alcoholism or other addictions themselves.“They have a big work ethic, are very clever and creative,” said Mr. Tieman, whose company treats about 1,200 executives a year at its centers in Pennsylvania and Florida. “They also have the notion of invincibility. They suffer from terminal uniqueness. They think: ‘I am different. I can drink again.’ That creates a very slippery slope.”

- One Misstep and They’re Out the Door by Geraldine Fabrikant, New York Times, 15 May 2007. Douglas Tieman is chief executive of Caron Treatment Centers.

How much of “it’s lonely at the top” comes from bosses making it that way? How often do we reject the useful counsel of peers, or neglect to use competent professional help? In this quote, Douglas Tieman is talking about substance abuse. But what about other things like deciding on corporate direction, figuring out how to deal with a troublesome employee, or even managing our attention deficit disorder?

Are there places where our mindset (or pride, or habit) keep us from seeking help that will pay off? Or even from noticing that help might be available?

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