"Hard work beats talent and talent does not work as hard."
- Tim Tebow (soundbite from Biggest Loser, TV show)
If you could only have one, would you rather have exceptional talent or exceptional work ethic? Would you rather have the gifts or the drive to go after what you want? To me, these seem to be very easy answers. For many though, not so much.
There is an interesting dynamic to talent - It is most commonly graced to a very few people. You will see these people on TV with beautiful singing voices, unbelievable athleticism or a cunning nature for business. You will also see many of these people on the streets of New Orleans performing for dollars, hustling basketball courts in Los Angeles or running scams in your own home town. Talent, albeit very helpful, is never a guarantee of success.
An exceptional work ethic, on the other hand, is something that almost always guarantees success. It is not given by the grace of God. It is not attributed to unique physical features. It is not something exclusive to those with wealth or education. Work ethic is available to any and every person! It is free although it does require the investment of time and some discomfort. Additionally, it is something that most people have available, but of which they will not take advantage!
So let us ask it again - Would you rather have exceptional talent or exceptional work ethic?
2 DEGREE SUCCESS STEP: Work ethic is nothing more than taking action when action is what is required. It is the additional effort required to ensure that you get what needs to be done...done!
How can you help bolster your work ethic? I believe in one simple, yet very effective solution: The To-Do List! More specifically, the 5/1 Focus List.
This is the list of the Top 5 things that are on your To Do list for the day. You work relentlessly to see that #1 is completed. You do not start #2 until #1 is completed in its entirety or scheduled with very specific next steps if it cannot be completed immediately. Once you move beyond #1, your #2 no become your new #1 and you repeat the process. Your DEDICATION and DILIGENCE in seeing these things completed to their full extent will help you "see and feel" your work ethic.
Positive results are the byproduct of hard work. List your efforts, execute with obsession and reap your benefits. You will find a direct relationship to your work ethic and your positive outcomes.
For better results, work with greater specificity and focused planning. But never sacrifice the work ethic!!
Cheers,
Zach
*To enjoy past editions of the Morning Motivator go to – http://grow-learn-lead.blogspot.com
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