“I learned the value of hard work by working hard.” ~ Margaret M. Fitzpatrick

Have you ever worked really hard at something and had the exertion paid off? I believe that hard work is the key to success. Hard work requires a lot of effort but when you succeed, the joy is indescribable.

Success literature going back hundreds of years espouses the benefits of hard work. But why is it that some people seem to feel that “hard work” is a dirty word nowadays?

I define “hard work” as work that is challenging. Both hard work and “working hard” (i.e. putting in the time required to get the job done) are required for success.

Work Hard. Not All at Once.

For example, one hour of writing, every day, is hard work. Eight hours of writing, in one day, is hard, even grueling, to do. But if you repeat one hour of writing, every day, for a month, you have over 30 hours of writing. Try repeating the eight hour day beyond even a week or more and it fizzles out.

Work hard at levels that multiply. Other people may have more talent, connections or outwit you. But don’t let them outlast you.