Hard work, what hard work?

Hard work, that word can mean different things to each individual. It could mean physical hard work to some, whilst for others it could mean going the extra mile in your job or doing something to make a difference.

Growing up in a traditional Sikh household in The Netherlands, hard work was the norm. It's something you just do, and you are never to complain about it. If you were not working hard inside or outside the home that was an issue. Sikhs around the world are known for their bravery and their work ethic. My mum describes it as hard work is your work done right !

It was amazing growing up in a country like The Netherlands where the culture was open, direct, curious, very respectful of other cultures and very honest. My Punjabi heritage and culture is all about giving, being respectful to everyone, not putting yourself first and often beating around the bush and not being direct at all. Both cultures have a big love of colourful clothing, which has become a big part of my identity.

One of the things both had in common was that just like my Indian mum The Dutch love a good bargain (I just realised how much I’ve become like my mother ha!). The other was hard work. I grew up in a community (at home and outside) where the work ethic was so strong that it became the norm to me to. Really giving your 100% in anything that you do. Whether that was my summer job in a local snack bar or my first full time job after school as a receptionist. So, you are 15 and have a part time job? Big-deal, stopping talking about it and just get on with it! I have been living in England for almost 15 years now and achieved some amazing things in my career. It’s taught me that your current situation doesn’t define your potential as long as you are working towards your goals.

I have 2 children and I try my best to ingrain these values and morals into them not by just saying but leading by example. I will always encourage them to be independent and hardworking & doing what they love. Kids forget what we say but they never forget what we do.?

These days we hear and see a lot around working smarter and not harder, how do you feel about this??What does this mean to you? Do you agree that we need to stop working hard and work smarter instead? Or can we pair the two up and make the most of the options available to us these days like technology, flexible working etc.