The value of hard work and perseverance ??

disclaimer: this is not a post about #worklifebalance, but about loving to work

Hard work and perseverance are often praised, but their true impact is rarely fully understood. In this news article from the Financial Times (which resonated deeply with my personal beliefs), the story of #KeirStarmer, who as The Labour Party leader, seems poised to become the next British Prime Minister, describes his relentless work ethic that has left even his closest associates in awe.

What is work?

To me the concept of "work" itself is fluid, encompassing not just professional duties but also the roles I cherish as a father and husband. This fluidity underscores the idea that passion and dedication can permeate all aspects of life, making the effort invested feel less like a burden and more like a fulfilling pursuit.

Beyond productivity hacks

In today's world, the narrative around productivity is dominated by hacks and quick fixes promising rapid success. However, the reality, as Starmer’s example shows, is that there is no substitute for sheer stamina and hard work. This is also my experience and it is my belief that adopting specific habits or time-management techniques cannot replace the need for hard work. True success in my eyes, particularly in challenging fields, demands continuous effort and resilience.

The wisdom of stamina

Reflecting on my own experiences, the value of hard work combined with passion has always been strong. Especially the past few years, where I have really tested this theory to its limit. I faced (& I am facing) some very difficult personal circumstances, yet I continued to focus on demanding "jobs" I enjoyed, even on as little as three hours of sleep a night.

I have been able to persevere and keep working due to the fact that I followed my father’s advice: find and do something you genuinely enjoy. This advice aligns perfectly with Angela Duckworth's concept of #grit, which emphasizes the importance of perseverance and passion for long-term goals.

When you love what you do, the additional hours you invest don't feel burdensome. Instead, they become an opportunity for growth and improvement. I belief that this positive feedback loop not only enhances your skills but also increases your enjoyment and satisfaction in your work.

#TheGritFactor

Angela Duckworth's research on #grit provides valuable insights into why passion and perseverance are crucial for success. She argues that talent alone is not enough; sustained effort and resilience are what truly drive achievement. In the face of difficulties, those who combine hard work with a passion for their work are better equipped to persevere.

Of course, you have to be careful that hard work does not lead to a health risk and a unhealthy obsession, but I have always been drawn to people who share my affinity for hard work. My favorite bosses and mentors have all been (and still are) hard workers, so were/are both my parents, embodying the same dedication and resilience that I strive for.

However, like I said at the beginning, this isn't a post about work-life balance, because the concept of "work" itself is fluid for me. My mother, who consciously took a break from work as a teacher, to focus on her four young, children. This exemplified to me that taking care of your family is hard work as well. Each fulfilling different elements of personal happiness and feeling of fulfillment, but still work that you have to take seriously and love to be able to flourish in it.

I know I'm blessed that I love all work and it does not matter to me if I do work as a father, a husband, or as a Director at Normec . Each role brings its own set of challenges and rewards, yet I find joy and fulfillment in all of them. I wonder if more people feel this way? Do others find their various roles in life as enriching as I do? Or am I missing the point?

#madetowork #workethics #hardwork #worklifebalance