Being serious about what you love deserves a big round of applause. Learn how to enjoy your earnestness with these simple tips
From shooting hoops to geocaching – that’s outdoor digital treasure hunting, in case you’ve never heard of it – there are heaps of interesting hobbies out there. But how dedicated to your passions are you? Are you serious about science, hooked on history, or devoted to dance? If that sounds like you, then you might be an earnest person.
People who are earnest tend to have a sincere or intense conviction about something. They might be driven or determined about a particular subject or activity.
They often have interests they feel strongly about. Think, for example, about two people in a passionate conversation about the latest Marvel movie or book from their favourite author. They might be so deep in discussion that they don’t notice anything else going on around them.
It’s an attitude that’s been praised throughout the ages. Ancient Chinese philosopher Confucius counted earnestness as one of the five qualities required to achieve ‘perfect virtue’, along with gravity, generosity of soul, sincerity, and kindness.
Being committed to a subject or cause can, in fact, be hugely enjoyable. A great way to combine an earnest spirit and have fun at the same time is to pursue a hobby, whether that’s practising yoga, studying Mandarin, or writing songs. The important thing is that being earnest means staying true to yourself.
Yes, going along with the crowd might feel easier in the short run, but doing what you love is more likely to bring personal happiness now and in the future.
Although it might be tricky, listen to your heart and try to follow what’s closest to it. If, for example, learning Mandarin isn’t an option at school, you could look up online classes, and explore the culture around the language, too.
Of course, if your hobbies aren’t mainstream, you might attract some teasing. This could tempt you to underplay or even drop them but try to stick to your guns. Yes, going along with the crowd might feel easier in the short run, but doing what you love is more likely to bring personal happiness now and in the future.
As American philosopher William James said: ‘Earnestness means willingness to live with energy, though energy bring pain.’ In other words, being earnest means being full-hearted and brave about the things you enjoy. So, try not to listen to those who might suggest it’s uncool or even childish to be excited about your passions, because actually, it’s the opposite.
Sometimes it can also lead to friendships as you meet others who share your dedication to something. Ever gone to an after-school club and made fast friends? Whether it was ballet, running, or photography, it brought you together.
Being an earnest person doesn’t mean you can’t have fun, and it certainly doesn’t rule out enjoying comedy, having fun, or being carefree. You might just see your pastime as no laughing matter, and if that’s the case, be proud of being earnest.
Being earnest means being full-hearted and brave about the things you enjoy.
Four ways to explore your earnest side
1. Be honest
Whether it’s divulging a secret love for trashy TV shows or tarantulas, be honest about your interests. If you’re afraid of how your family and friends might respond, remember that their reactions say more about them than they do about you.
2. Be kind
You might find yourself defending your passion against someone who’s equally as dedicated to theirs. Say, for example, you and a friend both love soccer, but support different teams. In this case, there’s no need to clash or play down your love for your side. Try instead to focus discussion on points of agreement. You could acknowledge your friend’s dedication to their side while emphasising why you think your team are great, too. You might use a friendly tone and say something along the lines of: ‘OK, we’re both equally committed to our teams and we both love soccer, so let’s agree to disagree on whose team is the best.’
3. Be you
‘Be yourself; everyone else is already taken,’ is a quote often attributed to Oscar Wilde. Although it’s not known for sure whether he or someone else said these words, it’s still a useful suggestion to keep in mind. Being true to yourself involves being vulnerable, which can be scary, especially when there’s pressure to fit in. It might feel uncomfortable at first, but try to keep at it, as it’s more likely to bring you personal contentment.
4. Be proud
Pride is often seen as a sign of arrogance. In many stories, like Jane Austen’s novel Pride and Prejudice, the emotion leads to difficulties and setbacks. But a healthy amount of pleasure in your interests is important, so don’t be afraid to be proud of what you’re passionate about.
Words: Lizzie Bestow
