The Foundation of Enthusiasm: An Unattainable Quality or a Learnable Skill?

1. Background

Enthusiasm is an elusive quality. Both in personal and professional settings, people have noted my seemingly unwavering enthusiasm. Although these comments are often wrapped in admiration, there is also a hint of disbelief. It is as if enthusiasm is an unreachable trait, a characteristic only a select few can possess.

This perception saddened me, prompting me to introspect why I am enthusiastic and whether this trait is acquirable. After careful thought, I realized that my enthusiasm rests on a tripod of mind-body balance, meaningful goals, and unconditional self-worth.

2. The Anatomy of Enthusiasm

2.1 Mind-Body Balance

The first leg of the tripod is maintaining a healthy mind and body. A clean diet, daily exercise, ample sleep, and practices like gratitude and Transcendental Meditation, are all critical elements of this balance. Ensuring the wellness of my mind and body has played a significant role in sustaining my enthusiasm.

2.2 Meaningful Goals

The term ‘enthusiasm’ finds its roots in the Greek word ‘enthousiasmos’, which signifies being possessed by a god or being inspired. To me, this ‘god’ is an ideal state I constantly strive for. This ideal manifests in various roles, such as being the best father, son, husband, friend, boss, and vendor I can be.

Setting SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals that align with these ideals invigorates me. These goals not only provide direction but also infuse a sense of purpose and enthusiasm into my journey.

2.3 Unconditional Self-Worth

The third leg of the tripod is perhaps the most profound one — cultivating an unconditional sense of self-worth. This is the belief that I deserve to achieve my goals, regardless of my past failures, shortcomings, or insecurities.

3. Cultivating Unconditional Self-Worth

3.1 Forgiving Yourself

Self-worth begins with forgiveness. Many of us are held captive by our past mistakes, preventing us from feeling worthy. To forgive yourself, introspect on your past, acknowledge your mistakes, and embrace the lessons learned. Releasing guilt and self-blame in this way sets the foundation for self-worth.

3.2 Practicing Self-Acceptance

In a world that constantly tells us we’re inadequate, self-acceptance is a radical act. Let go of the desire to fit into molds and instead, focus on appreciating your unique attributes. Embrace your quirks, your peculiarities, your idiosyncrasies. Recognize that you are enough just as you are, and this acceptance will fuel your sense of self-worth.

3.3 Being There for Yourself

During challenging times, instead of abandoning ourselves to harsh criticism, we must learn to be compassionate towards our feelings. Acknowledging our emotional pain and offering comfort is a powerful step towards unconditional self-worth.

3.4 Connecting with Supportive People

Finally, surround yourself with supportive individuals. Our struggles don’t make us unworthy; they make us human. Sharing these experiences with empathetic individuals reaffirms our worth and strengthens our resolve to thrive.

While the journey towards unconditional self-worth is not always easy, it is a path worth taking. It may require facing uncomfortable truths, painful emotions, and challenging our deepest insecurities. But through this process, we discover our true strength and realize our innate worthiness. This journey allows us to approach life with enthusiasm, embracing every challenge and celebrating every success.

So, I encourage you to embark on this journey of self-discovery, embracing every aspect of yourself. Once you do, you will find your own metaphorical dance floor, a space where you are free to express your enthusiasm authentically and unabashedly.