80 percent of problems caused by problem managers

Louie (not his real name), an office worker in his late 20s, was experiencing an irritating problem. At 7:30 every morning, as soon as he was ready to drive to work, his ears started ringing, simultaneously with his eyes bulging.

- REY ELBO

He suspected he was experiencing tremendous job stress.

He confided his problem to his boss, who suggested that he consult a psychologist. "There's no doubt, Louie," the psychologist said. "Quit your job, find a new line of work, and your problem will be solved." Upon hearing that, Louie submitted his resignation to his employer, who wished him well.

Two days later, as soon as he had put on his favorite shirt and tie in preparation for a job interview, he experienced the same symptoms as before. His ears started ringing, and his eyeballs continued to bulge. After the interview, he went to see another doctor, who suggested having his lower teeth pulled out right away.

But that didn't work either. His ears still rang and his eyes continued to pop out.

Doubly frustrated, Louie went to another appointment with a specialist in eyes and ears. After a series of tests done over three consecutive days, he heard the bad news: "You have only three months to live."

Louie was shocked. After quitting a high-paying job, having his teeth pulled out, and now with only three months to live, he accepted his fate with grace. He decided to enjoy his final months on Earth. He sold his house and car and withdrew his life's savings. He went on a spending spree.

He bought a new sports car and a boat and decided to have a business suit tailored for his funeral. The custom tailor, with 40 years in business, meticulously measured Louie's body. "That will be 34 inches for the waist and a 16-inch neck."