Sitting behind a row of 9-year-old boys at the local university basketball game this past week was such a great demonstration of unbridled enthusiasm. Their cheers were pure, simple, unrestricted and focused on each play, chanting loudly for the home team with no self-interest other than to see them win.
Having been accused of a similar enthusiasm that I share for those who are out to make the world or their sphere of influence better no matter the odds, I thought it was time to research this phenomenon. Like the boys, pure enthusiasm is not fueled by caffeine or self-importance. The Greeks, from whom the word derives: [Greek enthousiasimos ≤ entheos god-possessed ≤ en- in + theos- god] had a more spiritual interpretation to its meaning and purpose as compared to the current definition of ‘eager interest, zeal’.
It is the ‘eager interest’ that deserves discussion. At a time when selfies and personal identity are at the forefront, these are inbound, self-focused flows, often ignoring the people and life that is surrounding them. The detriment of this viewpoint is not only lost opportunity to learn and experience, but also the two-way, reciprocal benefits of care and respect. Eager interest is an outbound flow, emanating from the individual toward a person, a product or purpose. Enthusiasm or eager interest opens doors and minds for interaction, with benefits that are truly immeasurable. There are those who would throw paint on a classic work of art to express their own self identity as a protester, never noticing the thoughtful combinations of colors and brush strokes depicting a calm, pastoral scene. Those who see the art enthusiastically fulfill their curiosity and enhance their respect for the artist who braved a blank canvas to create beauty.
Someday science will prove my theory that unbridled enthusiasm actually is life giving, and applied to every aspect of one’s life, from family and friends to their workplace and goals, will inspire an evolution needed to build a better world and a vibrant culture where all can win.
By the way, unbridled enthusiasm is free to create. If you need a boost or yours has been minimized, we are here to help revitalize and restore.
“Enthusiasm is one of the most powerful engines of success. When you do a thing, do it with all your might. Put your whole soul into it. Stamp it with your own personality. Be active, be energetic, be enthusiastic and faithful, and you will accomplish your object. Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm.” Ralph Waldo Emerson
Gillian