Literally means to be inspired or possessed by God (Shorter Concise Oxford).

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When I am enthused about something I am embodied by supernatural inspiration or prophetic ecstasy rather than juts being eager, excited or having a strong interest.

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Hence, enthusiasm is not an attitude I can create, it is a born of inspiration from a higher plain.  Enthusiasm may be driven by my values, vision or beliefs.

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Given the Concise Oxford’s meaning, then Dale Carnegie’s claim that if you ‘act enthusiastic, you will become enthusiastic’ cannot be correct.  To try to create an attitude (or anything else) that cannot be created is the seed of failure, stress and depression.

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Positive affirmation and excitement, as great as these may be, are not enthusiasm.