I believe in hard work.
I can still hear my Dad’s voice echoing throughout my childhood: “If you’re not going to do it the right way, then don’t do it at all.” From a young age, my Dad ingrained in my brothers and I the importance of hard work. Whether we were doing our homework, simple chores around the house, or heading to a part time job, he always reminded us to give things our all, from the most mundane tasks to more significant ones.
This idea of approaching everything in life with pure intent and purpose has followed me ever since, and it shows up in virtually everything that I do. When I am tempted to be lazy and not give something my whole attention, I think of my Dad and how doing the right thing in such a seemingly small way can make a difference. This emphasis on hard work has carried over into many other areas of my life. I push myself to do my best in all aspects – daily life, school, and work. I think that this belief in honest hard work has shaped my identity and helped me to find success in the things that I have approached.
When I was younger, I remember my siblings and I getting annoyed by these once tedious reminders to do things like clean all of the dishes in the sink, even if they weren’t mine, or pick up after myself, even if I wasn’t in the mood. However, I now see how these simple things have shaped me to become who I am today, and how I am better because of it.
The most important part, I think, is that my Dad always led by example for my brothers and I. He is the most hardworking person I know, and it shows in everything that he does. He constantly showed my siblings and I the correct way to do essential life tasks that would be important for us later in our lives. He was always there to encourage us to keep working harder for things that mattered. And he made sure to be around to support and help us whenever we needed it – and he still is.
With these life experiences, I had been steadfast in my belief of the value of hard work. I know and I have seen firsthand the power it has – to change things, shape an identity, and to build habits.