Dealing with doubt

I have had several conversations lately with leaders who are struggling with being down. It seems that depression is a common struggle with anyone who leads anything. It also seems that wintertime makes things worse.
In a conversation I had today I suggested to a friend to discover the path to finding balance. Let me explain. You must know yourself well enough to know how to pick your self up. I know that the work of the Holy Spirit is to encourage and inspire you but you must intentionally join God in this task.
God wants you full of hope not discouraged. Discouragement is not from God.
Let me cut to the chase, when I get discouraged I know I need time away with Tara. My behavior is to just work harder and longer thus driving me more into being down, but when I retreat, spend time with God, and my most trusted friend I find God's release.
Knowing yourself is the first law of leadership!