Enthusiasm is the mother of effort, and without it nothing great was ever achieved. ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

I have been told that I am too enthusiastic about my beliefs, my work helping individuals and organizations grow and about my life in general.  This enthusiasm seems to be upsetting to some people. Since I was told this I have been surveying my co-workers, friends, as well as others to see if my over enthusiastic demeanor is troublesome. The majority of the people seem to believe it is my enthusiasm for life that helps me to pursue excellence and makes me successful in all my endeavors.

Power of Enthusiasm

Let’s take a look at what enthusiasm is: an absorbing possession of the mind by any interest or pursuit; lively interest, keen interest. Enthusiasm is the energy and force that builds momentum of the human soul and mind. The energy, which has as its central element for human beings is the will, produces a force of character and is the sustaining power of all great actions. It is the electricity of life.

It is said that enthusiasm is contagious. Whatever you do enthusiastically people will like it more. That is why apathy can be overcome by enthusiasm. Enthusiasm can only be awaken by two things- an idea that takes the imagination by storm and an intelligent plan for carrying the idea into practice which I believe is a leader’s main responsibility. You cannot lead a team with pessimism and cynicism and expect anything positive to happen. You must lead them with optimism, energy and enthusiasm for your organization and it begins in with you.

Furthermore, enthusiasm keeps you young at heart. It is the sparkle in your eyes when you see a friend, it is the swagger in your walk, it is the grip of your handshake, and the irresistible urge to hug someone to show you care and are happy to see them. The true secret to never growing old is to carry the child like spirit into old age which means never losing your enthusiasm.

I know of no single formula for success. But over the years I have observed that some attributes of leadership are universal and are often about finding ways of encouraging people to combine their efforts, their talents, their insights, their enthusiasm and their inspiration to work together. ~ Queen Elizabeth II

The Fish Guys

There is real magic in being enthusiastic. It absolutely makes the difference between mediocrity and accomplishment.   Have you ever heard of the guys from the world-famous Pike Place Fish Market in Seattle, Washington? If you’re not aware of them, “the Fish Guys,” as they call themselves, are famous for great fish and even better customer service. At least four books have been written about their philosophy and methods; and the Fish Market is known as one of the most fun places to work.  They also put on a bit of a show, shouting and throwing fish back and forth over the heads of customers.

One of their most famous lines from the Fish Guys is this: “Love the people first; sell the fish second.”  I think this encapsulates so much of what I believe about great leaders and their accomplishments. This is how their teams end up becoming friends…they take the time to get to know one another and they really do care about each other. 

What about you? Do you share this similar mission – to love the people first? It makes sense philosophically.  John Yokoyama, owner for the Fish Market, has stated, “We’ve made a commitment to have our customers leave with the experience of having been served. They experience being known and appreciated whether they buy fish or not.” 

We grow old by deserting our ideals. Years may wrinkle the skin, but to give up enthusiasm wrinkles the soul. ~ Samuel Ullman

Enthusiasm Makes Life Worth Living

You can’t impact others in any way if you don’t love the people first. People don’t care what you know or what you can do for them until they know that you truly care about them. By showing that they matter, you can influence them to believe in the cause and in the organization.

So I may be too enthusiastic for some people.  Yes I am full of energy.  Yes I can be a force to be reckoned with but I think the enthusiasm helps me better connect with others by showing them that I care about them first.  It helps me stay young at heart…have more fun… to be happy… be successful…to influence the team in a positive way… …and to keep growing.  I hope you continue to take your vitamin E for enthusiasm and are told that you are too enthusiastic.

If you would like a more in-depth help developing some techniques to become a more comprehensive leader please contact me.  I would be happy to help you learn how to share your enthusiasm in ways that better connects you to the people in all areas of your life.

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