On Enthusiasm

It’s Tuesday and that can only mean one thing.? It’s time to share!!? Ok, it can mean other things like yesterday being a holiday where I live, and that I for one am thankful for certain parts of social media.

While I love that you read my words in written form, as usual, if you would rather listen, in either of Canada’s official languages, click here: People Power Everything Podcast (Version Francophone)

I was taking a walk yesterday and noticed a man with his young one in tow.? The child must have been about two years old, walking behind dad and keeping close.? They were getting to a house that is decorated for Halloween where another child, perhaps aged 3 or 4, was waiting for them.? The father said hello to his official greeter with what seemed to me to be a verbal smile.? They then proceeded to look through all the decorations and the father was very appropriately very enthusiastic, to the great joy of his greeter and his own child.? They shared moments of wonder about how the skeletal hand was reaching out of the ground and the spider webs just showed up and made the whole scene spooky.? The tone of their voices was loud for a quiet street, but it was all very joyful and appropriate.? It made me smile as a simple observer.? I stopped for a second to think about it and in my view this man was being just the right level of enthusiastic for the kids.? He was showing them how to be a great guest and admirer of what others have done.?

Somehow, I want to transpose the dad’s tone and approach everywhere.? I want people to take a beat to think about how they react to someone else’s news. When we show genuine enthusiasm, it not only elevates the moment but also encourages others to engage more deeply. It can inspire people to share, participate, and feel more valued. Take a minute to think about how we feel when someone is enthusiastic about what we have to share and then try to be that person for the people around you.? So, how can we bring more of that "verbal smile" and sense of joy to our everyday interactions? Here are five ways to show more enthusiasm in life:

1. Active Listening

Whether you're at work or with friends and family, one of the most powerful ways to show enthusiasm is through active listening. This means giving someone your full attention (hide the phone!), asking follow-up questions, and responding in a way that shows you're truly interested in what they have to say. It's more than just hearing; it's about engaging. For example, when someone shares exciting news, reflect their excitement back with words like, "Wow, that’s amazing! Tell me more about how that happened!" Your genuine curiosity will spark positive energy in the conversation.? And do it with more enthusiasm than you think appropriate.? Don’t worry, if people judge you for being too enthusiastic, maybe they are jealous asshats…? ???

2. Celebrate the Small Wins

We often wait for big milestones to celebrate, but enthusiasm doesn’t have to wait for something monumental. Recognize and cheer on the little victories—whether it’s completing a project at work, learning a new skill, or even getting through a tough week. Sharing a simple, "Great job!" or "That’s awesome!" can go a long way in showing you’re not only paying attention but also rooting for others. When you celebrate others, you build an environment where enthusiasm is contagious.? Show what is called freudenfreude, which is being genuinely happy for another person’s success.? It is not a competition and a? win for a friend is beautiful when celebrated together.

3. Be Present in the Moment

It’s easy to get distracted by our phones, emails, or thoughts about what’s next. But enthusiasm thrives when we’re fully present. Whether you're in a work meeting, spending time with friends, or just enjoying a moment of quiet, try to stay mindful of what’s happening right in front of you. When people sense that you’re fully engaged, they feel valued and seen. Being present also helps you express more sincere enthusiasm because you're connected to the moment, not just going through the motions.? Put away the phone.? It’s ok, you won’t miss out.? And, by being fully present, you will actually miss less of what’s going on right in front of you!?

4. Use Positive Body Language

Non-verbal cues like eye contact, smiling, and nodding can amplify your words and show that you’re not only interested but excited. At work, this might mean leaning into conversations and using open gestures during discussions. Outside of work, think about how you greet people—with a warm smile or an excited wave. Even small shifts in body language can convey enthusiasm and make interactions more dynamic and engaging.? Be excited to see other people.? Put aside any embarrassment and be happy!?

5. Show Gratitude and Acknowledge Effort

Gratitude is a powerful way to boost enthusiasm in yourself and others. Take time to thank those around you for their contributions, no matter how small. At work, this could mean recognizing a colleague’s hard work or appreciating someone’s input during a meeting. In your personal life, it could be thanking a friend for being there for you or appreciating the efforts of a family member. When you express gratitude, you foster a positive atmosphere that invites more enthusiasm from those around you.? Thank people for saying hi, reaching out, inviting you to a dinner or simply being there.?

By building these practices into your daily routine, you can bring more enthusiasm to every interaction. Just like the dad showing excitement for those Halloween decorations, a little effort can create moments of joy that ripple out to everyone around you, including random strangers who observe you from afar, smiling at the right level of enthusiasm as people.? After all, People Power Everything.?

John

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