Crackers or nuts?

My new role has me as an Iteration Lead on a very large project - at least 12 months. I am really looking forward to it, especially getting to help manage such a large team.

I've been looking at some Agile PM blogs and came across Mike Griffith's Leading Answers blog. Mike is based in Calgary as well, and used to worked for Quadrus before he set out as a consultant. I haven't ever met Mike but I've heard lots of good things about him and know that he's working with a couple of ex-ThoughtWorkers on his current project.

His recent post "Be Enthusiastic - It's Contagious" really struck a chord with me. Having passion for your work not only has a positive effect on you, but it naturally affects those around you. I strive every day to be enthusiastic and not let any setbacks get me down. I agree that this is not a "once in a while" thing, it has to be sustained to have the desired effect. Sincerity is the way to go.

I've worked with a lot of nay-sayers (thank goodness not recently) and it's hard to get motivated when the only comment that you get from someone is a negative one. Then they wonder why they are not liked or not asked for their opinions anymore.

It's a hard skill to learn if it doesn't come naturally. I have learned over the years as a consultant that coming out of my shell as a leader, while difficult, is necessary to exhibit the energy that I'm feeling inside.

Also, congrats to Mike on his award for his blog from the PMI.