When I was still in junior high or high school, I started collected quotations. I still have the little black notebook that I used to record quotations throughout high school and into college. A simple quotation can convey a lot— often providing inspiration, motivation, support, insight.
I have decided to revive my old tradition of collecting snatches of things that I hear or read—a quotation or epigram—but this time, share it with others. And when I have time, to comment and expand on that quotation and what it means to me.
I’m going to start with this comment from musician Carlos Santana that I heard today – January 1, 2015, on my local public radio station, KQED. It seems appropriate inspiration for whatever you’re starting in this new year…
“Energy comes from enthusiasm.” — Carlos Santana
As entrepreneurs and small business owners, we all start out naturally enthusiastic and optimistic about our endeavors. But in the tedious work of day-to-day operations, and the inevitable set-backs that come along our path, we can lose that enthusiasm. And that’s one of the reasons why we find ourselves tired, listless, without energy.
As importantly, we often forget to elicit enthusiasm in those who work with and for us. We fail to share what makes us passionate about our business—our products and services. When we deal with them, we focus on the mundane tasks they must complete rather than the larger purpose we’re trying to achieve.
In 2015, let’s try to consciously keep our enthusiasm high. Let’s focus on the behind what we’re doing. Stay in touch with what drives you. Get back in touch with your original motivations—remember what kind of difference you hope to make in the lives of others.
After all, Santana’s more expanded comment was this:
“You were born to bring something to a lot of people, and it’s a remembrance of their own light… As soon as you remember that, you get more energy. You’re not 67 anymore, you become 17. Energy comes from enthusiasm. Enthusiasm means being uplifted with spirit.”
Happy new year!
Copyright, Rhonda Abrams, 2015
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