03 Mar “Work Smarter Not Harder” and Other Lies

“Work smarter not harder.” 

“There’s a reason they call it work.”

“The early bird catches the worm.”

“If you work hard enough you can achieve anything.”

“If you want something done right, do it yourself.”

“No pain, no gain.”

“No rest for the weary.”

“Another day, another dollar.”

These are all work sayings I’ve heard over the course of my career. You likely have heard a few of them too.

And for a long time, I believed them.

For far too long I believed the only way to have a “successful” career was to work harder and longer than everyone else.

I didn’t consider if the work being done was fulfilling. Or, if co-workers were people to be liked and respected.

“Success” was grinding to the top of the corporate ladder.

I don’t believe that anymore.

I don’t believe hard work is the only driver to the top. The hardest working person is often not the most successful.

However, I also believe there is more to success than simply working smarter. Those with enviable careers are definitely hard workers. They are not simply sitting back being “smarter.” They work hard, but not necessarily the hardest.

Most importantly, I no longer define “success” as the corner office.

Success to me now is having a rewarding career. One where you are proud of your contributions and work alongside, and for, people you enjoy being around.

Not every minute of every day is enjoyable in the workplace. And I don’t expect it to be.

I do, however, believe that at the end of the day, your career should provide you fulfillment, as well as a paycheck. And I believe everyone should be able to find a job and career they find rewarding and fulfilling.

Education and experience aren’t the only considerations to building a rewarding career.

I believe success in your career is directly related to your ability to work…with people.

You can be the smartest person in the room, the hardest worker, have the best ideas, but if you can’t communicate those ideas, collaborate with colleagues to get them implemented and accept guidance from your boss, you won’t get too far.

That’s why I share stories from my career.

To help you navigate the waters of the workplace, benefit from enhanced interpersonal skills, and avoid some of the missteps I’ve made.

I do not believe work has to be “work.”

I don’t want you to believe it either.

I want for you to build a rewarding career.

And, I believe it is absolutely possible. I hope you believe it too.