FROM UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI EXTENSION
SOUTHWEST REGIONAL NEWS SERVICE
Contact: Bob McNary, 4-H youth development specialist
Headquartered in Jasper County
Tel: (417) 358-2158
E-mail: mcnaryrl@missouri.edu

First person column …
Enthusiasm Comes From Doing Things We Care About

When I watch young people work and play I am always impressed with the boundless energy they invest in the things they like to do.

We adults call this boundless energy enthusiasm. It is an important element in the success of every opportunity we undertake.

The word enthusiasm is derived from the Greek word, enthousiasmos, which means to be inspired.

Enthusiasm is a powerful tool in creating momentum. Enthusiasm can help to combat fear and nervousness. It can even create temporary energy and willpower. Being enthusiastic gives us an overall feeling of happiness and well-being. That makes whatever we do worthwhile. 

True enthusiasm comes from doing things that we really care about.

A person who has a passion for raising beef animals, or gardening, or even public speaking, will be enthusiastic about the time and effort spent on this activity. A person with enthusiasm will want to spend time on this activity. They will also feel good about the time invested.

Enthusiasm pushes us to achieve at greater heights and gives us the momentum to meet goals.  

The momentum we feel when we are successful produces a special type of energy. Passion provides the fuel that lights the fire of enthusiasm.

In all that we do, it is easier to “give it our best” when we feel good about it, and we are enjoying positive results. The thrill of competition and the joy of accomplishment cause us to strive and soar to new and higher heights.

Whether you are leading a young animal around a show ring for the first time, creating your own piece of art in the kitchen or the wood shop, or giving a demonstration at a club meeting, the energy and momentum of enthusiasm can give you the strength to overcome nervousness and display the confidence of a winner.
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Robert McNary can be reached in the Jasper County Extension Center at (417) 358-2158. A former agriculture teacher at Jasper R-5 School District, McNary has been with Extension for three years. He received a master's in education (1985) and a bachelor's in agriculture (1981) from the University of Missouri. In his position as a youth development specialist he provides leadership for 4-H youth programs in Barton, Cedar and Jasper counties.