Enthusiasm

Description

Enthusiasm is being filled with spirit. It means “God within”. When we live with enthusiasm, we are excited about life and are open to the wonders each day holds. We do things wholeheartedly, with zeal and eagerness, holding nothing back. We allow the excitement of the moment to fill us. We enjoy good humor. We live in the moment and appreciate what we have, finding joy in simple pleasures. We are cheerful and optimistic about what is to come. Enthusiasm helps us to imagine what is possible. We follow our dreams with true joy.

 The Practice of Enthusiasm

• I am excited about my life.
• I do things wholeheartedly.
• I am inspired by simple things.
• I put love and joy into what I do.
• I smile, laugh, and have a good sense of humor.
• I have a positive spirit.

Definitions and practices of virtue are used with permission from the Virtues Project™.

In Family Life

The virtue of enthusiasm in a family is exemplified through an atmosphere of genuine excitement, support, and energy that permeates daily interactions. It is demonstrated by family members actively engaging in each other’s passions and interests, whether cheering on a child’s soccer game, participating in a parent’s hobby, or celebrating a sibling’s achievements.

Enthusiasm within the family means being genuinely interested and invested in each other’s lives, encouraging one another to pursue dreams and goals, and fostering an environment where everyone feels empowered to explore their talents and interests. This virtue brings forth a sense of shared joy, nurturing strong bonds, and a sense of togetherness that can weather any challenge.

Balancing Enthusiasm

To maintain a healthy balance of enthusiasm, several virtues can come to our aid:

• • Moderation: The virtue of moderation can help temper over-enthusiasm. Individuals can learn to channel their enthusiasm into productive and sustainable pursuits by practicing moderation. They’ll avoid burnout and ensure they approach tasks and goals with thoughtful consideration.
  • Patience: Patience helps counter underdeveloped enthusiasm. Individuals can persevere through challenges and setbacks with more tempered optimism when they cultivate patience. This virtue encourages them to keep their long-term goals in mind and stay committed even when the initial excitement wanes.
  • Humility: Humility reminds us to remain grounded in our enthusiasm. It encourages us to appreciate life’s simple pleasures and not let success or enthusiasm inflate our egos. Humility keeps us connected to others, preventing us from becoming self-centered in our enthusiasm.
  • Gratitude: Gratitude complements enthusiasm by encouraging us to appreciate what we have and find joy in the present moment. Practicing gratitude can help us avoid taking things for granted and maintain a positive outlook.

While enthusiasm is a wonderful and uplifting virtue, it must be balanced like any other virtue. Overdeveloped enthusiasm can lead to recklessness and exhaustion, while underdeveloped enthusiasm can result in a lack of motivation and fulfillment. Embracing virtues such as moderation, patience, humility, and gratitude can help us harness the power of enthusiasm in a way that enhances our lives and the lives of those around us.