I've never viewed myself as particularly talented. Where I excel is ridiculous, sickening work ethic. You know, while the other guy is sleeping, I'm working. While the other guy is eating, I'm working. - Will Smith
5 Characteristics of a Good Work Ethic
1. Attendance and punctuality: In school you learn and accomplish most when you show up, on time and prepared. You can’t learn if you’re not there! And when you come late, it’s unlikely that you’re really ready to do your best work. Good attendance and punctuality are two important pieces of a good work ethic.
2. Goal setting: Before you can accomplish your goals, you need to know what they are. People with good work ethics are goal-oriented and dedicated to achieving the success they envision. They understand that there are many steps to success and they’re willing to take them.
3. Hard work: At the foundation of a good work ethic is a whole lot of hard work. In school, it may mean staying after for extra help from your teacher.
“Work hard in silence, let success be your noise.” – Frank Ocean
4. Positive attitude: Your positive attitude can set you apart from your peers –and it can be infectious! Approaching every task—big and small—with a good attitude shows that you’re a team player.
5. Accomplishment: The more you accomplish, the more likely you will be the person chosen for further advancement. Your good work ethic is likely to be recognized, acknowledged and rewarded and can serve as a building block to your future success.
Work ethic is similar to a muscle. It can be strengthened with proper training.
Tips on Building a Stronger Work Ethic
Results Require Hard Work
Start Your Day Strong
A strong work ethic begins with a disciplined morning routine. Get moving and get going. This will soon become a habit. When your alarm sounds, pop out of bed and stand up first; then switch it off with your feet firmly on the ground and be ready to start your day.
Tackle the Big Challenges First
When you avoid difficult tasks by pushing them later into your day, soon you’ll justify bumping them into the next day… and then the next one… and then into next week… Don’t resist difficult tasks. Embrace them and get them done first!
Work first, then Play
Play is sweetest when it’s earned. So is sleep. Earn your sleep each night by working hard on your goals during the day. Go to bed with the sweet smile of accomplishment. Take your rewards. Enjoy your life but earn your rewards first.
The Power of Practice
Think of something you want to get better at and start putting in the practice. Sure it involves some sacrifice, but what will you give up? Extra TV time, playing online? What will you gain for your efforts? It isn't just the end result. You will grow stronger.
Practice Effectively
- Focus on the task
- Minimize distractions
- Start slow and build up
- Include break times within your practice
- "See" yourself reaching your goal
"Super-successful people aren’t the most gifted people in their fields. They just work, study and practice more than the competition."- Jack Canfield
Explore the K12 Career Education Navigator
The K12 Career Technical Education (CTE) Navigator helps you explore high school courses and career pathways offered across San Bernardino and Riverside Counties. Browse by industry sector, county, school district, and more to find options that match your interests and career goals and see how these pathways can prepare you for college, certifications, apprenticeships, or the workforce.
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