This. One. Word

Upon entering the Paramount Theatre, the feeling of excitement was palpable.  When the lights went down and the cast members of "So You Think You Can Dance," took the stage, the audience's anticipation was rewarded with a stage rich with excitement and passion.

Exuberance.

Look it up on Bing:   it is the quality of being full of energy, excitement and cheerfulness.

It's a word that we should think about and activate more often;   these are the key qualities (energy, excitement. . .and yes, even cheerfulness) that should think about bringing to our work and our lives.

At times we confuse "professional decorum" with somber and staid.    Somber and staid don't win the day.     They don't recruit friends.   People don't want to follow somber and staid.   Why?    Because the very words lack passion.

Foundationally, we need to be honest with ourselves.   Are we, or can we, be genuinely excited about our work?    If we can't, forget about exuberance and passion and all that good stuff. . .if we are genuinely unhappy with our work, then we are smiling through gritted teeth. . .and seriously, we need to fix it or move on.

Upon examination, however - if we can find that we really love what we do - then let it show!  I'm not talking about hauling out the pom-poms and turning cartwheels - but I am talking about letting our excitement for our team and the tasks at hand be not only genuine, but on display as well.

Why?    We will be happier.   Too often we fall into the trap of "work is work and work is not to be liked or enjoyed."   This is deadly.    If we enjoy our work, we need to celebrate that work and those that contribute to the work.

Why?    Because our teams will be happier - they will want to follow us.  Seriously, no one really wants to follow a funeral director - you know what's at the end of the line.   But, we all want to follow someone who exudes genuine interest and excitement for what is at hand.   It is inspiration.

Exuberance.

This one word, if activated, can make all the difference.

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My book "Courageous Questions, Confident Leaders" is available on Amazon Kindle.