I know this is crazy and something I probably shouldn’t admit, but very often I have no idea which words I am going to fill this blank page with. I rarely travel (not out of lack of desire) therefore I can’t really authentically opine about places I’ve never been to. My vocation, which I love, keeps me consistently busy drawing up plans for various architectural edifices (that’s me above at my first job in an architectural office in Hartford). Challenging work, but let’s face it, every structure has a foundation, walls and a roof. The specific arrangement of them along with instructions on how to assemble them all remains fairly consistent. On the weekends you can find me exploring the great outdoors, having breakfast with friends, and then gathering together on Sunday, the Lord’s Day, for worship. Next week, rinse and repeat.
So then, how does one define hard work? I can only give you my own answer and I’ll try to make it a good one. The best definition I can offer is an individual who gives his complete time, attention, and ability into accomplishing his or her (there are clearly only two authentic genders) defined task in a timely, thorough manner. Do this and you qualify as a hard working individual, in my humble opinion. I had great parents who modeled hard work, six days a week, often in the midst of difficult weather conditions. We lived up north, you see. I suppose “hard work” can be considered a relative term. One could be the hardest working individual in your office but not necessarily a competitor’s office. I imagine that most companies find themselves in competition with those providing similar services. May the best company win in that respect.
Are you ready for some good helpful nuggets on being a hard worker? They say that with age comes wisdom. Since my first paying job was around 1980, I believe I’ve earned the right and ability to speak on this subject.
Timeliness! For heavens sake, be on time. In fact arrive early and leave a bit late, it won’t kill you. Be that person in the office everyone can rely on to be there, consistently.
Be like Scotty. Engineer Scott on Star Trek always multiplied his work estimates by a certain factor even though he knew he’d get them accomplished sooner. Now I’m certainly not endorsing any form of dishonesty but I am suggesting that it is wise to give yourself a bit of wiggle room to check your work and hedge against possible unforeseen complications. If you get it done sooner then great.👏
The Golden Rule of treating others as how you would like to be treated still works but admittedly seems to have fewer participants then years ago. In my lifetime I have seen a shift in attitude towards generational respect. Generally speaking with many exceptions, laziness and entitlement is on the rise. Suits and ties are thing of the past, which I am grateful for, but the use of “colorful metaphors” seems to be on an uptrend. I hear street language from the younger generation on the job like I’ve never heard before, as though it’s ok. I don’t think it is but then again I don’t sign the checks. There are SO many better words to use, believe me. I would strongly suggest using proper vocabulary at the office but if you must indulge the dark side then at least be creative. In fact, if you really feel the urge use new combinations like fungi phyla!
Be mindful of that IPhone of yours. I am speaking to myself as well. The iPhone has become something most of us cannot live without. Can you think of anything you can’t do with your iPhone? The convenience of having every worldly thing at your finger tips, including the immediate ability to connect with loved ones in an emergency or to take that personal call away from listening ears is just too good to pass up. However when we are on the job, self control should permeate ALL of our actions. Focus and remember why you were chosen for that seat you are occupying.
Always have an answer before you ask a question. Yes, this more than possible and it may prove to be an opportunity to offer your own suggestions. Your boss will appreciate your initiative and may even use your idea.
If it’s never been done before then be the first to do it. If you discover a new method which positively challenges the old, then be a pioneer and use it.
And please never, ever gossip. Be that person who everyone knows doesn’t gossip. Ignorance is bliss, they say, and I believe them. Besides in these days of “alternate facts” which information can you really trust anyway?
Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters. Colossians 3:23
And why?
You should mind your own business and work with your hands, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody. 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12
Respect and independence. Are these even valued anymore? I like to think so being the eternal optimist I am. Even so, I have been asked before, on the job, why I don’t seem to act exactly like everyone else. At that point the door is open and I give the answer as to the reason for the hope that dwells within me, who is Jesus.
Have any other ideas, please comment below. Let’s crowdsource a few more ideas and transform us all into the best employees on the planet. 🌎
Jim
Written 3/18/23
Personal note: Recently I had a reader pledge a subscription because they believe my writing is worth paying for. I am of course very humbled and have thanked them profusely for validating my writing. Although I do this for “fun” I do take it very seriously. So I guess the pressure is really on now. 😮
Hard Work
You gotta love that picture. I wish there were many more who view hard work as you do. Thanks, Jim.
Good advice, clearly learned from experience. When I left editing our local newspaper for the corporate world, my wife (who worked in a corporate office herself) gave me some advice that has stood by me through the years. "Always make your boss look good." Work hard, work well, and cover shortcomings when you can. Your boss will appreciate it.