Why work so hard? - Why Not!

My colleague and I were in a meeting discussing a work assignment. We were trying to brainstorm and get some shape to a newly formulated plan. While I was excited and pouring most of the ideas, he seemed a lot disconnected and relatively quieter with almost no facial expressions and no involvement.

I stopped and asked what was going on with him. He smiled and said " What’s the point of putting in some much of effort? Why work so hard?" That left me perplexed. Another bouncer from his side that knocked me out. ‘ You and I both will get paid x amount whether you do it perfectly or don’t’, so what’s the use of being so involved?

I am sure this is not the first time you would have come across someone who feels or articulates such feelings. It could be your thought too. Why put in so much of effort? Why work so hard? I took a pause to digest what these questions had triggered within me. I had a counter question for my colleague and that was- ‘Why Not'?

If you feel whatever you are working on doesn’t need your 100% or what’s the point of putting in your best; why not look for something that is far more challenging. Things that can inspire you, which makes you want to do your best, outshine your previous performance. Why Not?

As I closed the conversation with him I had a few parting thoughts that helped him and might help us when we go through this feeling of not wanting to put in our best:

1. Identify what Inspires you- Ask yourself ‘what do you really want to do’? Trust me this is the hardest step to simplify life.
2. Set a Goal- Once you know what you want, set a goal and lay out a plan of action. Make it SMART and work towards it.
3. Challenge your Status Quo- Do something outside your comfort zone. To start with pick up any 2 things that you would like to do differently. It can be as simple as changing hairstyle, changing a fixed route to work etc., just to let you used to change.
4. Stay Motivated- Light that fire within you. If you can’t keep yourself up, find an external source of motivation for yourself.
5. Value the Gift of Life- It is just one life, you can do so much more than just staying mediocre.

Take charge, it’s your life. Don't keep thinking and not doing or shut your thoughts by saying it's not possible or logical. Do something that is worth living for.

Involve, Evolve and Excel. Why Not!

What do you think? Does this remind you of someone you know? Do share your thoughts in the comment section.

Thank you for stopping by and reading

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