I liked the way you described displaying enthusiasm as a form of vulnerability. I never thought of it that way, but it's very true. It takes courage to openly display enthusiasm, and it's so easy to deflate it by making snarky comments or stonewalling.
Re:Why your programmers just want to code
by TeMPOraL on Friday December 01, 2017 @11:43AM
(#15825012)
Yes. When you share something with someone, or put an effort for someone, out of the depths of your heart, that's when you're vulnerable for rejection or ignoring.
I unfortunately know it from personal experience, from way before I entered the job market. I've always been full of enthusiasm for stuff, but after few unfortunate episodes in my past, I find it hard to share that enthusiasm with people - especially those close to me. I like to think I'm making progress in fixing the damage, but the process is slow.
As for the issue of "would-be enthusiastic employees becoming disengaged because their ideas are not given a fair-hearing", I do agree. This also affects communities, and even interpersonal relationships. There's hardly a better way to destroy someone's willingness to help if you keep hurting them at their most vulnerable period - when they're full of enthusiasm, and trying to contribute their best.