I am a huge proponent for working hard… I think it’s one of the things that my generation will be marked by, our lack of hard work. We want to find the shortcuts, take the easy road and find the Job that’s going to give us the best path to success without working hard.
Except that is the problem, we want everything without working hard.
I’m not a fan of this at all. I think hard work goes a long way and is one of the few things that separate the successful and the not so successful. I’m not saying that a few get through without hard work, but I do think it makes all the difference.
Mike Rowe (from Dirty Jobs and almost all things Discovery Channel) posted this a while back and just recently stumbled upon it when going through some old archives. I think you’ll enjoy this…
“THE S.W.E.A.T. PLEDGE”
(Skill & Work Ethic Aren’t Taboo)
1. I believe that I have won the greatest lottery of all time. I am alive. I walk the Earth. I live in America. Above all things, I am grateful.
2. I believe that I am entitled to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Nothing more. I also understand that “happiness” and the “pursuit of happiness” are not the same thing.
3. I believe there is no such thing as a “bad job.” I believe that all jobs are opportunities, and it’s up to me to make the best of them.
4. I do not “follow my passion.” I bring it with me. I believe that any job can be done with passion and enthusiasm.
5. I deplore debt, and do all I can to avoid it. I would rather live in a tent and eat beans than borrow money to pay for a lifestyle I can’t afford.
6. I believe that my safety is my responsibility. I understand that being in “compliance” does not necessarily mean I’m out of danger.
7. I believe the best way to distinguish myself at work is to show up early, stay late, and cheerfully volunteer for every crappy task there is.
8. I believe the most annoying sounds in the world are whining and complaining. I will never make them. If I am unhappy in my work, I will either find a new job, or find a way to be happy.
9. I believe that my education is my responsibility, and absolutely critical to my success. I am resolved to learn as much as I can from whatever source is available to me. I will never stop learning, and understand that library cards are free.
10. I believe that I am a product of my choices – not my circumstances. I will never blame anyone for my shortcomings or the challenges I face. And I will never accept the credit for something I didn’t do.
11. I understand the world is not fair, and I’m OK with that. I do not resent the success of others.
12. I believe that all people are created equal. I also believe that all people make choices. Some choose to be lazy. Some choose to sleep in. I choose to work my butt off.
So there you have it. Print it off, frame it on your desk and remind yourself daily that hard work isn’t a bad thing… It’s something that makes us better. It builds character and it puts you ahead of the rest of the pack.
