Learning to work hard is like exercising; it benefits you now and in the future.
WHAT IT MEANS
Industrious people do not shy away from work. Rather, they enjoy working hard to provide for their personal needs and to help others — even if the work they do is not glamourous.
WHY IT MATTERS
Like it or not, life is full of responsibilities. In a world where many dislike the idea of working hard, being industrious puts you at an advantage. — Ecclesiastes 3:13.
“I’ve learned that when you work hard, you get a sense of pride and inner satisfaction. That feeling of inner satisfaction has actually caused me to like work. Having a strong work ethic will help you build a good reputation too.” — Reyon.
BIBLE PRINCIPLE: “There is benefit in every kind of hard work.” — Proverbs 14:23.
WHAT YOU CAN DO
Cultivate a positive view of work by following the steps outlined here.
Take pride in learning to do something well. Whether you are doing chores, finishing your assigned homework, or engaging in secular work, immerse yourself in what you are doing. Once you can perform a task well, look for ways to improve — doing it faster or better. The more skillful you are, the more you will enjoy your work.
BIBLE PRINCIPLE: “Have you seen a man skillful at his work? He will stand before kings; he will not stand before common men.” — Proverbs 22:29.
See the bigger picture. In almost every case, when you care for your responsibilities well, you benefit others. For example, when you are industrious about your chores, you lighten the load for others in your family.
BIBLE PRINCIPLE: “There is more happiness in giving than in receiving.” — Acts 20:35.
Go the extra mile. Instead of doing just the bare minimum, try to do more than you are required to do. In this way, you are in control of your life — doing more, not because you are forced to, but because you choose to. — Matthew 5:41.
BIBLE PRINCIPLE: “Your good deed may be done, not under compulsion, but of your own free will.” — Philemon 14.
Be balanced. Industrious people are not lazy, nor are they workaholics. They aim for balance, finding enjoyment both in hard work and in periods of rest.
BIBLE PRINCIPLE: “Better is a handful of rest than two handfuls of hard work and chasing after the wind.” — Ecclesiastes 4:6.
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