Sunday Snippet: Henry Chester

“Enthusiasm is the greatest asset in the world. It beats money and power and influence. It is no more or less than faith in action.”

It doesn’t really matter when you have a world of talent if you don’t go through the steps to develop that talent, to build on that unrealized potential. Similarly, it doesn’t really matter when you have a great deal of power if you don’t exercise that influence in a fruitful manner.

Passion is another way to think about enthusiasm. The person who is passionate about a project, business or endeavor will be the person who is willing to stick it out through the tough times. They’ll push through adversity, because they are enthusiastic. They won’t let this project fall onto the back burner. They won’t let it slide into the “some day” bin. When you’re enthusiastic, you’ll work tirelessly to see your project succeed, because it feels less like work.

No, enthusiasm on its own is not enough, but it plays a very important role. When you are enthusiastic, you don’t hold anything back. You truly do put in the effort, rather than simply go through the motions. A person with a great idea, great talent, and great influence won’t have the same level of motivation and dedication as an equivalent individual with unbridled enthusiasm.

Yes, the enthusiastic fool may rush in where angels fear to tread, but it is only through this foolish gung-ho attitude that you discover uncharted lands. Enthusiasm and passion are what will get you off your butt and into motion. Will you take that leap of faith?