Tag: Passion

According to a 2007 study on psychological threat and zeal, people often turn to intense, zealous attitudes to cope with uncertainty and personal dilemmas. So, what is zeal for and how can this powerful emotion be directed constructively? Zeal is an intense passion, ardor, or enthusiasm in pursuit of a cause, idea, or objective.

Originating from the Greek word *zēlos*, meaning ardor and jealousy, zeal is a powerful human emotion that drives intense pursuit of a goal or cause. Understanding what is zeal made of reveals a complex mix of motivations, from spirited enthusiasm to defensive compulsion.

Research has consistently shown that the intense energy behind zeal can be a double-edged sword, leading to great achievements or catastrophic burnout. The question, "Is zeal good for you?" hinges entirely on its nature: is it a harmonious, life-affirming force, or an obsessive, self-destructive one?