Choosing to be an enthusiastic person is not a simple task.
In fact, it is one of the most challenging disciplines that you will embrace. The reason it is hard is that it is much easier to be cranky, discouraged, and cynical. Each day is filled with justifiable reasons to be a grump.
- Someone cuts you off on the freeway.
- The news is nothing but contrarian, debating pontificators
- An angry customer has unrealistic expectations.
- The dog chewed a hole through your favorite blanket.
- A coworker is vying for the Oscar nomination of office drama.
- You just realized you spilled coffee on your shirt.
- The mortgage, the college bills, and a car repair are due this week.
- Here, you fill in the blank ___________________________
Every day. The same thing. It wears on us, and we become accustomed to the negative. We even begin to expect it. Trying to be enthusiastic in the midst of all the chaos is like trying to push that proverbial rock up the mountain. But don’t despair!
Enthusiasm is a Disciplined Skill
Having enthusiasm in your life is like learning to walk, it is a discipline of intention and effort. The more you work at it, the more steady you become. Each step leads to another. Eventually, it becomes a “natural” part of your life, but it still takes work.
Enthusiasm is an act of your will. You have to choose to fill your mind with what is positive. You have to look for the good in all circumstances. Even if it feels awkward, discipline your mind to find a reason to be joyful.
There is some excellent advice that comes from an old Biblical text: “Fix your thoughts on what is true and good and right. Think about things that are pure and lovely, and dwell on the fine, good things in others.”
Let’s go stir up some good today!
— Steven Iwersen
Speaker / Author of “The Porcupine Principles! How to Move Prickly People to Preferred Outcomes”
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