What is enthusiasm? Let’s reflect on another emotional intelligence competency , which is enthusiasm. We could say that enthusiasm is the ability of the person to connect with positive emotions, which make them face their challenges and objectives with joy, passion and optimism.
In addition, it also shows the person’s ability to connect with the emotions of others and be able to spread that joy and commitment.
Where the enthusiasm comes from
Enthusiasm is intrinsically born from the person’s self-motivation (we can therefore see the relationship with other intrapersonal intelligence competencies, such as self-knowledge, self-regulation and self-motivation , and at the same time the relationship with interpersonal intelligence competencies, such as influence or leadership.
In relation to this last point, it is a highly demanded competence in organizations both in professionals and leaders. Professionals who lead from enthusiasm are more sought after than those who lead from fear.
Lead with enthusiasm
Leading from enthusiasm implies fostering with conviction and security, communicating and transmitting with confidence The purpose of the organization and the team, to believe passionately and motivated in the team, in the objective and in trusting that people have the necessary capabilities to achieve what they set out to do.
Enthusiastic professionals are emotionally intelligent, strong-willed, and take on challenges with confidence, passion, and energy to take them on.
Martin Seligman, An American psychologist, recognized for his work in the field of positive psychology, tells us about the positive emotions of people that can refer to the future, (highlighting optimism, faith, hope and confidence), to the past (with feelings related to satisfaction, self-realization or serenity) and to the present, (with emotions linked to joy, fluency and enthusiasm).
Seligman also talks about the importance of commitment to foster these emotions, which consists of the person’s involvement in achieving a goal that is meaningful to them.
HOW CAN I TRAIN MY ENTHUSIASM?
Normally, enthusiastic people usually know themselves very well and have identified their motivations, strengths, purposes and objectives. They are also people who identify the emotions they feel and who also enhance their positive emotions, thanks to self-regulation.
To this end, I invite you to reflect on these aspects and to record them in writing. What goals do you have this year that really motivate you? What is the connection between these goals and the values that matter most to you?
What are the positive emotions you have throughout the day?
What facts, people, situations, do you associate feeling those emotions with?
How do you regulate yourself when you detect that you feel negative emotions or have a state that blocks you?
To be enthusiastic is to communicate positive emotions
- Enthusiastic people tend to openly communicate their positive emotions, which is why they manage to spread them to others. I invite you to think about the most enthusiastic people you meet in your personal or professional environment. Record in writing the specific behaviors that these people have in their communication, in their way of behaving, in which you can observe that they are enthusiastic. He responds in writing to these reflections:
How do they speak when they passionately express what motivates them?
Analyze their tone of voice, volume, facial expression, (look, smile…), rhythm, emphasis, etc.
Motivate your enthusiasm
What types of words or expressions do they use that show their motivation and energy?
Identify which of these aspects you would like to practice and repeat in order to develop your enthusiastic communication. Decide each week on a specific situation where you can start practicing more joyful and enthusiastic communication.
Think about the energy you transmit to your collaborators or the people you interact with. It is important that you identify and be able to interpret the emotions of others as well. Empathy is crucial here. In order to connect with others and transmit positive emotions to them, you first need to understand what their emotional states are and show genuine interest in wanting to understand and support them.
To achieve this , spend time fostering and improving your personal relationships. Try to use positive feedback, start and end conversations by showing interest in others. Treat others with affection, respect, focus on the person, use their name to address them, and remember important personal details for the person you are talking to.
Final Thoughts
What would you like to comment or add about these reflections?
… And remember to keep developing your talent to reach your best version.
