DON'T Curb Your Enthusiasm

Through networking, I met Rijn Vogelaar from Amsterdam. Rijn is an enthusiasm researcher at Leiden University and has written "Flame, Flow, Flood - The Dynamics of Enthusiasm". The "Flame" is being inspired by others to undertake a task or hobby. "Flow" is when a person meets others who are also interested. "Flood" is when they can inspire others to be as enthusiastic as they are.

Some people are just more enthusiastic than others. Although enthusiasm comes from within, I believe it is a characteristic that can be nurtured and learned.

Young children are in awe of their surroundings. Every day is an exciting, new experience as they increase their knowledge of the world around them. This enthusiasm can be nurtured and grow through the years with the help of parents and educators who use their voice, their body language and their actions to continually stimulate their children to approach things enthusiastically.

When parents and educators are enthusiastic themselves, it has a positive effect on children's motivation whether at school or at play.

Every new task children attempt can be daunting. But with encouragement and a "can do" attitude, children will not be afraid and can be motivated to try to accomplish new things. They have a natural curiosity that can be nurtured into adulthood.

True leaders have an enthusiasm for their work. It helps them communicate more effectively and inspires confidence. It motivates people to strive to improve and do their best. It helps to accomplish any goal.

Enthusiasm is another value we can instill in our children to enable them to become successful adults.