"L'exubérance est beauté"

To put it simply, the idea here is that genuine enthusiasm and joy are inherently beautiful. When someone is truly excited and passionate, it radiates out and creates a kind of beauty that isn't just about physical appearance—it's about the energy and the light they bring into a room.

Historically, this kind of sentiment has been celebrated in various forms. Think back to the Romantic poets, who often exalted passion and emotion as the highest forms of expression. William Blake, the poet who penned this quote, was a big believer in the power of raw human emotion. He lived in a time when society was becoming more industrial and mechanical, and his work often pushed back against that, celebrating the wild, untamed parts of the human spirit.

Now, picture this: You’re at a concert. The band starts playing your favorite song. You look around and see the faces in the crowd. There’s that one person who is completely lost in the music, eyes closed, singing along at the top of their lungs. They’re not worried about how they look, who’s watching, or if they’re out of tune. They’re just... there. Totally present. That’s what we’re talking about. That person, in that moment, is the embodiment of beauty through exuberance. They’re living the quote.

So, how can you apply this idea in your own life? Start by paying attention to what genuinely excites you. What activities make you lose track of time? What topics can you talk about for hours without getting bored? Lean into those things. Don’t hold back your enthusiasm because you’re worried about what others might think. If you love something, show it. Your passion is what makes you stand out and it’s what makes you beautiful to others.

Imagine you’re at work and you’ve just come up with a brilliant idea for a project. It’s something you’re really passionate about. Instead of presenting it in a monotone, play-it-safe kind of way, let your excitement show. Smile, use gestures, let your voice reflect your enthusiasm. People will notice. They’ll be drawn to your energy and they’ll be more likely to get on board with your idea. It’s contagious.

Let me tell you a story. There was this guy, Mark, who worked in advertising. He wasn’t the most traditionally handsome guy—kind of average looking, really. But he had this infectious enthusiasm. When he pitched an idea, you couldn’t help but get excited too. He’d talk with his hands, his eyes would light up, and you could see he genuinely believed in what he was saying. Clients loved him. They’d choose his ideas over ones that might have been technically better, just because his passion was so compelling. Mark’s success wasn’t just about his ideas—it was about how he presented them. His exuberance was his beauty.

In your own life, don’t be afraid to let your passion shine through. Whether it’s in your work, your hobbies, or your relationships, remember that being genuinely enthusiastic is a form of beauty that transcends the physical. It’s about being real, being present, and sharing your true self with the world. And that, my friend, is something truly beautiful.