Chapter 2
Rock, Paper, Scissors, and Team Captains: The Why and What of Enthusiasm
In today’s world of laziness, apathy, and rampant lack of work ethic, enthusiasm stands out. Putting energy behind your efforts can yield better results, better relationships, and a more powerful presence.
Enthusiasm sets the tone. It allows you to set the bar and expectations higher in the form of excitement. Sometimes, you have to make people get really freaking pumped up! And the only way to do that is through enthusiasm.
I realize that enthusiasm may not seem like an innate thing, but it comes from the drive and desire to succeed; it must be practiced, and it must be pursued. Now, when we get excited about something, people around us usually have two reactions: 1) they get excited with us (which is awesome), or 2) they think you are bit crazy, which is fine. You don’t want to hang out with this second group anyway. (This is not a blanket pass for you to go act psychotic.)
When cultivated correctly, the right style of enthusiasm can inspire others into terrific efforts. Small setbacks have the opportunity to ruin your day or fuel your drive to succeed; it’s your choice.
In life, you must learn to recognize those who help you call upon your own enthusiasm as well as those who suck energy from you. I call these people energy vampires. They can steal your excitement and make you feel like you’re just spinning your wheels when you’re actually making progress. Have you ever had a colleague who always asked for your help but took credit for the work themselves? Or have you ever had a friend who always wants to talk but never wants to listen? These types of interactions can leave you feeling drained and exhausted. Life is much too short to spend time with people who break us down. We have to seek out people who positively influence our attitudes and energy levels. We also need to strive to be this sort of positive influence on others.
We have to make it a priority to fly with the eagles and starve the turkeys. We all know the turkeys; they’re the people who say “You can’t do that,” or “You’re too excitable.” They try to calm us down
