One of my all time favorite quotes is from Ralph Waldo Emerson.

Nothing great was ever achieved workout enthusiasm.

When I set out on a new project, new job or new adventure in life, I try to take this quote to heart. Being enthusiastic generates an energy that is addictive – it’s a feeling I get, a literal buzz, and it can be very addictive. And it’s a necessary addiction because great things usually don’t come easy. Great things are complicated, difficult and time consuming. They require hardwork and perseverance, and it is enthusiasm that will sustain you.

Enthusiasm is also infectious. If you are working with a team, being enthusiastic can be inspiring to those around you. If you are the team lead, it will encourage others to follow you. Great leaders are always enthusiastic about the work they do. It signals that they care about the effort and that others should care too.

Think about the people who are considered great leaders, who have achieved great things, and you start to get the picture of what Emerson really meant with this quote.

The full quote reads:

Enthusiasm is one of the most powerful engines of success. When you do a thing, do it with all your might. Put your whole soul into it. Stamp it with your own personality. Be active, be energetic, be enthusiastic and faithful, and you will accomplish your object. Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm.