Providing resources for communities and entrepreneurs to create and retain jobs in Antrim, Charlevoix, Cheboygan & Emmet Counties.

Let’s start an epidemic of enthusiasm!

Northern Lakes Economic Alliance  •  231-582-6482  •  info@northernlakes.net

Andy Hayes, NLEA President

“To be enthusiastic, act enthusiastic!” Learn to have enthusiasm for the tasks at hand. Pictured, Andy Hayes’s enthusiastic grandson, Guy Proctor, who lives in Louisville, KY. 

I wrote this story a couple of years ago and I think it’s worth a quick reminder.

There is an old saying that says, “To be enthusiastic, act enthusiastic!” More than any other quality, enthusiasm is vital to our success as business, government, education and community leaders. For each of us, success or failure depends on our ability to recruit, train, and motivate others. People want to be around enthusiastic leaders. They will follow people that they know are excited and committed.

Walter P Chrysler, when asked to give the secret of success, listed various qualities such as ability, capacity, and energy, but added that the real secret was enthusiasm and excitement. “More than enthusiasm, I would say excitement,” said Chrysler. “I like to see a person get excited.  When they get excited, they get customers excited, and we get business.” Chrysler’s motto was instilled in me in 1977 just as my professional career began.

My first boss and mentor shared this philosophy with me, and the important role my attitude played as I worked with others throughout the organizations and communities we served.  Although not perfect, I have tried to live my life both professionally and personally keeping Walter P. Chrylser in mind.

Pictured is one of my grandkids, Guy Proctor who lives in Louisville, KY. My goal is to have at least half the enthusiasm he has for the task at hand (in this case coloring Easter eggs!).

I challenge each of you to be an enthusiastic leader and to share that enthusiasm with the people around you. For it is this enthusiasm that translates into genuine excitement and becomes contagious. Not only will your organization be more successful, but you’ll also be having a great deal more fun in the process!

Leave responses and comments for Andy Hayes

Core Partners

Get the NLEA E-Newsletter
Be in the know about programs and events to benefit your communities and businesses.