22nd September 2010
"Apathy can be overcome by enthusiasm, and enthusiasm can be aroused by two things: first, an idea which takes the imagination by storm; and second, a definite, intelligible plan for carrying that idea into action."
Arnold Toynbee
Apathy means lack of interest. Isn't true that at some point of time in our life, we lose our interest in doing what we are supposed to do. This slows down our pace of work, and if allowed to continue, it will affect the quality of our work. We cannot commit ourselves whole heartedly on any activity if we are not interested.
The antidote for lack of interest is enthusiasm. We have to understand how the thing we have undertaken fits into the overall purpose of our life. Our enthusiasm will be contagious and will also influence others positively.
The next question is how do we get enthusiasm? To imagine and visualize how we will be if our idea is implemented and made to work! The imagination should be wild and powerful. Even if it an exaggeration, it is fine, since we need to excite our mind.
At the same time, we need to understand the power of the left side of the brain, which is logical and sequential. The right brain is emotional and dreams the impossible, but gives us a kick and hypes our emotions. But the left brain should be engaged to support the enthusiasm and come out with concrete plan of action.
Here is a home work for you: take an activity that you have given up. For example, you stopped playing your favourite musical instrument. Ask the question, what it means to play it again. Go back to that day in your life when you played the same and what difference it made in your life. List at least three good things that you will get by practicing it again. Mull over it in your mind. Then have a time schedule to practice the instrument from this week. Do a small activity by way of implementing the idea.
Do this exercise and notice the difference!
N C Sridharan
000
Posts
