How to be an enthusiastic Project Manager
As a project manager practitioner, I define myself as an observer. I believe that observation is key to be a more complete project manager. Observing people patterns and reactions may be helpful for you. Foe example enthusiasm is key for being a successful project manager. Some professionals are confused between being enthusiastic and clowning. In my opinion they are two very different things.
I strongly believe that enthusiasm is a key skill to develop and gain for every project manager. Enthusiastic people radiate energy. I want to share with you some of the characteristics of enthusiastic people:
- The first caharacteristic of enthusiastic people is their ability to radiate positive energy. When these people walk into a room, heads turn and people gather. Their smile lights up the room, they are able to attract people.
- The second characteristic is curiosity. They are interested in knowing more and they ask questions. They love learning and live in a state of wonder, surprise, and delight.
- Enthusiastic people focus on the good (even when things are bad). They emphasize what they can do rather than what they cannot do. They look for the gift in difficulties and live life with gratitude.
- Enthusiastic people feel deeply and laugh often. Laughter helps them keep things in perspective and just as they are open to joy, they also allow tears. They show compassion for life’s difficulties and use humor to help themselves and others through tough times.
- Enthusiastic people do something they love every day, no matter how small. They are passionate about their work, hobbies, craft, or the sports they play and it shows.
- Enthusiastic people serve a greater purpose than themselves. They have a desire to help others and build community. They are naturally drawn to share their enthusiasm with others.
Over the years I was trying to be as much enthusiastic as possible. It takes time but it is worth. In some occassions some managers criticized me negatively with comments like: “Alfonso you are always smiling, projects are very serious”. When I smile I move many muscles in my face and I energyze myseld being positively contagious with my peers, colleagues, team members and executives. I defend that enthusiatic project managers are able to generate a better environment for project success.
If you want to learn more about enthusiasm, read my book “Passion, persistence, and patience.
TODAY IS A GOOD DAY but TOMORROW WILL BE BETTER!
Alfonso Bucero, MSc, CPS, PMP, PMI-RMP, PfMP, PMI Fellow