Despair in the air

Does your daily work routine have you feeling like you're running on a hamster wheel on Dilbert's desk on Groundhog Day?

Well, you're not alone--not that that's of much comfort. The folks at Despair Inc., a peddler of unmotivational products, have you in their crosshairs.

An article in the May issue of Fast Company describes the folks responsible for the company as "soul assassins." Indeed, Despair Inc.'s product line is sure to trip up those employees scurrying around for their moved cheese.

Some of the uninspirational sayings from the company's posters, mugs and other products:
• Achievement: "You can do anything you can set your mind to when you have vision, determination and an endless supply of expendable labor."

• Motivation: "If a pretty poster and a cute saying are all it takes to motivate you, you probably have a very easy job. The kind robots will be doing soon."

• Get to work: "You aren't being paid to believe in the power of your dreams."

• Despair: "It's always darkest just before it goes pitch black."

And for management types who hope to master the craft of demoralization, "The Art of Demotivation" by Despair Inc. founder E. L. Kersten is available in three editions costing $24.95, $34.95 and $1,195 (for the chairman edition).

Cubicle dwellers, just be sure the newly enlightened boss doesn't see your red Swingline stapler in your office space.