The word “enthusiasm” has Greek origins: it comes from en (in) and theos (inner god), of divine inspiration. Somehow, many people have lost this enthusiasm, if they ever had it, and being bored seems to be a fashionable mask.
But I know some people whose enthusiasm is infectious. One of these people is young, in her early 30s, and has been through some big health challenges recently. In all the months she has had to endure various treatments, each more complicated than the last, she has chosen to work, sometimes from home, sometimes from the office, to make appointments, so as to keep her mind occupied, not to let herself be overwhelmed and dragged down somehow by difficulties. She enjoys what she does and does it with enthusiasm, energy, with her head held high, even in situations where many would give up. You may think what she does is easy; it’s not.
This person is a role model for me, an example of an assertive, self-responsible, constructive person, who looks for lights or lights them herself, in tunnels where there were none.
Another example is my teacher at Insead. He turned 80 this year, travels to all continents, writes extensively, lectures, swims 30 laps of the pool every day, and has more energy and enthusiasm than many 30-40-year-olds.
I think of them and other people who inspire me with their energy whenever I feel like I’m struggling, tired, or when I feel like I can’t do things safely anymore.
Haziness extinguishes the light and stifles the spirit, enthusiasm will light up the darkness, open up unsuspected paths. Do you know such people whose enthusiasm inspires you?