Enthusiasm Itself is the Motivator

One of my favorite books is Enthusiasm Makes the Difference, by Norman Vincent Peale.  This was one of the first books I read on my journey to a positive attitude and better life.  What I found is there are really two benefits of acting with enthusiasm--external and internal.  The external benefits show up in how you deliver something you genuinely care about.  It's contagious and persuasive.  I've noticed that this past week while training a new employee.  My partner and I built our store from nothing and are so very proud of it.  I feel this passion coming through when I explain even the most mundane tasks and expectations to the new employee.  That is what makes the difference, isn't it?  Anyone can regurgitate information, but it takes a genuine and passionate interest in something to deliver it with enthusiasm.

"I truly believe that enthusiasm makes the difference between success and failure." ~ Norman Vincent Peale

The other side of the coin is the internal power of changing the way you live life.  Enthusiasm is the arch enemy of fear and worry.  It is an "intense and eager enjoyment or interest" in something, thus adopting an enthusiastic attitude drives out negative emotion.  

It can sometimes be tough to find positivity day after day when you're going through tough times.  The beauty of developing an enthusiastic attitude is that it causes you to view everything differently, but it starts with just one thing.  It's not about searching for something to feel happy about.  I know, firsthand, that during the darkest times it can be hard to find even a glimmer of light to feel grateful about.

"The men who do the most with their lives are those who approach human existence, its opportunities and problems, with a confident attitude and enthusiastic point of view." ~ Norman Vincent Peale

Living with enthusiasm is a way to completely change your perspective.  It becomes motivating.  Even in the darkest moments there is always something you enjoy.  Focus your enthusiasm on that one task.  I mean really focus your thoughts on this task and allow the keenness to develop.  The feeling will grow.  Rather than trying to change how you look at the things around you, which are likely a cause of the ill feelings, just pick one task you already enjoy and do it with intent.  Do you see the difference?  Enthusiasm will naturally flow and become the motivator.  It will precipitate the change you need. 

Your life is not meant to be lived in mediocrity.  It's meant to be lived with emphatic exuberance.  When you find enthusiasm you find motivation.