When you want to write the emotion enthusiasm, it's important to "show" the emotion your character is experiencing through their physical reactions and dialogue, rather than "tell" it. In this article we provide you with inspiration so you can avoid show; don't tell and immerse your readers in your story.

Enthusiasm is a strong feeling of excitement, eagerness, and passion towards something. It is the intense emotion that drives individuals to pursue their interests and goals with great energy and motivation. Enthusiasm is often contagious and can inspire others around you to feel the same level of excitement and commitment towards a common objective. It is a positive emotion that can help individuals overcome challenges and obstacles with a sense of purpose and determination.

Different Types of Enthusiasm

Here are some different types of enthusiasm:

• Eager anticipation
• Excitement
• Zeal
• Passion
• Eagerness
• Motivation
• Optimism
• Joyful energy
• High spirits

Situations Associated with Enthusiasm

Here are some situations where a character might experience the emotion of enthusiasm:

• Starting a new project or endeavor
• Achieving a long-awaited goal or milestone
• Receiving praise or recognition for their work
• Being surrounded by supportive and positive people
• Discovering a new passion or interest
• Feeling a sense of purpose or meaning in their life
• Being challenged in a way that excites them
• Being inspired by someone or something they admire
• Feeling confident and capable in their abilities

Physical Reactions to Enthusiasm

Here are some physical reactions a character experiencing enthusiasm might have:

• Smiling or grinning
• Wide eyes and raised eyebrows
• Leaning forward or toward the source of excitement
• Clapping or jumping up and down
• Speaking quickly or loudly
• Using expressive hand gestures
• Laughing or giggling
• Bouncing or fidgeting with excitement
• Engaging in activities or hobbies with energy and excitement
• Initiating conversations and interactions with others
• Having an optimistic and positive outlook
• Possessing high levels of motivation and eagerness
• Demonstrating a willingness to take risks and try new things.

Remember, these are just a few examples and not everyone will show enthusiasm in the same way. It's important to consider your character's unique personality, background, and experiences when portraying their enthusiasm.

Thoughts Associated with Enthusiasm

Here are some thoughts a character experiencing enthusiasm might have:

• I can't wait to get started!
• This is going to be amazing!
• I feel alive!
• I'm so excited!
• Let's do this!
• I'm bursting with energy!
• Nothing can stop me now!
• This is exactly what I wanted!
• I can't believe how lucky I am!
• I'm completely invested in this!
• I'm ready for anything!

Atmosphere of Enthusiasm

Here are some ways that you might reflect the emotion of enthusiasm in the atmosphere of your scene:

• Choose a setting that reflects the character's passion or interest, such as a sports field or an art studio.
• Use descriptive language to create a vibrant and lively atmosphere, with words like "energetic," "exciting," and "vibrant."
• Include sensory details that convey the character's excitement, such as the sound of cheering, the smell of freshly cut grass, or the taste of victory.
• Use dialogue that reflects the character's enthusiasm, with exclamations, positive affirmations, and words of encouragement.
• Show the character taking action towards their goal, with confident and purposeful movements, and an eager attitude.
• Include other characters who share the same enthusiasm, creating a sense of community and support.

Verbs Associated with Enthusiasm

Here are some verbs commonly associated with the emotion of enthusiasm:

• Exclaim
• Celebrate
• Embrace
• Radiate
• Inspire
• Energize
• Enliven
• Spark
• Thrive
• Champion
• Infuse
• Galvanize
• Revitalize
• Ignite
• Rejoice
• Enchant
• Invigorate
• Delight
• Stimulate

Emotions Before Enthusiasm

Here are some emotions that may come before a character experiences enthusiasm:

• Apathy
• Boredom
• Disappointment
• Doubt
• Fear
• Frustration
• Insecurity
• Indifference
• Pessimism
• Resignation
• Skepticism

Emotions After Enthusiasm

Here are some emotions that may come after a character experiences enthusiasm:

• Disappointment
• Frustration
• Exhaustion
• Elation
• Satisfaction
• Gratitude
• Pride
• Confidence
• Anticipation

Telling Enthusiasm Examples to Avoid

Here are some examples of telling the emotion enthusiasm in a sentence. You should avoid things like this:

• John was feeling enthusiastic about the new project.
• She couldn't help but feel enthusiastic about the upcoming trip.
• The audience was filled with enthusiasm as the band took the stage.
• His enthusiasm for the topic was infectious.
• Despite the early hour, the team was filled with enthusiasm for the day ahead.
• The teacher's enthusiasm for the subject matter was evident in her lectures.
• She tried to contain her enthusiasm, but it was clear she was excited about the news.
• The group's enthusiasm for the cause was unwavering.
• He approached the task with enthusiasm and determination.

Practical Examples of Showing Enthusiasm

Here are some examples of showing enthusiasm in a sentence:

• Jumping out of bed, she eagerly began her day with a smile on her face.
• He couldn't contain his excitement as he eagerly anticipated the outcome of his project.
• With a bounce in her step, she hummed a tune as she walked down the street.
• His eyes lit up with enthusiasm as he described his latest adventure to his friends.

Exercises for Showing Enthusiasm

Here are some writing exercises to practice showing enthusiasm:

• Describe a character's physical reactions to something they are enthusiastic about, such as jumping up and down, clapping their hands, or grinning from ear to ear.
• Write a scene where a character is eagerly pitching an idea to others, using energetic language and gestures to convey their excitement.
• Show a character's enthusiasm through their inner thoughts and dialogue, such as exclaiming "This is amazing!" or "I can't wait to get started!"
• Explore how a character's enthusiasm might change over time, such as starting off hesitant but gradually becoming more excited as they learn more about a project.
• Use sensory details to convey the feeling of enthusiasm, such as describing the rush of adrenaline or the warmth in a character's chest.
• Write a scene where a character is trying to inspire others with their enthusiasm, such as giving a pep talk or leading a group in a cheer.
• Consider the potential drawbacks of enthusiasm, such as causing a character to overlook important details or come across as overly pushy.

Want more help with showing emotion instead of telling? You find more help in our full list of emotions.