Quality 9 - Enthusiastic

Favorite Quote - "I feel sorry for the person who can't get genuinely excited about his work. Not only will he never be satisfied, but he will never achieve anything worthwhile." Walter Chrysler

Harley Davidson is the quintessential corporate American success story. From its beginnings in 1903, Harley Davidson built great motorcycles that were loved and depended upon all over the world, including the Allies in World War 2. In the early 1960's Harley Davidson owned an 85 % market share for large motorcycles in the US. After 60 years the company changed hands and the company moved. Workers were demoralized and quality declined. In 1980, the Harley Davidson market share for large motorcycle sales dropped to 30%. In 1981 13 executives and enthusiasts bought HD and the company began to turn around. What made the difference. New methods, new products, new owners all contributed to a new enthusiasm within the company and among customers. Today, Harley Davidson has total sales of 2.9 billion annually. Harley employees and owners are legendary for their enthusiasm about their motorcycles.

Reflecting on enthusiasm we see that enthusiastic people;

1. take responsibility fro their own enthusiasm. They recognize that a positive attitude is a choice.
2. sometimes act their way into feeling that way. No one feels positive and enthusiastic all the time. Sometimes we just "fake it until we make it." Yesterday on the porch, Jane Stancil came out smiling to beat the band, and so was I. One of us asked the other, "What are you smiling about?" The response was, "I just am."
3. believe in what they do.
4. Spend time with other enthusiastic people. Have you ever noticed how a negative person brings everyone down and how a positive one lifts everyone's spirits? You are most like the ones you spend time with.

To improve enthusiasm;

1. work with a sense of urgency. Set goals for yourself. Put a little quick in your step. Interact purposefully with colleagues.
2. be willing to do more. When I was out last week, several things had to covered at the last minute. The team players took on those responsibilities willingly and cheerfully, asking "What can I do to help?" Do what's required and then some.
3. strive for excellence. Nothing breeds enthusiasm like a job well done.

Only with enthusiasm can we continue to bring out the best in ourselves and in our students, or make the transition to whatever new beginnings lie ahead next year and into the future.