“I work hard.”
There, I said it. And…I am not apologizing for it.
In today's world, where the mantra of life/work balance is sung from every corner and every mountaintop, admitting to working hard might seem like a faux pas. But let's dissect that for a moment.
The concept of working hard has, unfortunately, been painted with a broad brush. It's often associated with long hours, burnout, and a life devoid of any fun or relaxation. But is that the complete picture? I'd argue it's not.
In my years of sales, executive leadership, and now as a managing partner of Butler Street and Chairman of Spire Workforce Solutions, I've come to realize something crucial:
Working hard doesn't mean you're not balancing your life.
It means you're deeply committed to what you do. But here's the catch - if you genuinely love what you do (helping companies and their people grow) you won't feel like you're working hard, even if you're putting in the hours.
Now, I'm not advocating for endless workdays or neglecting personal life. No, what I'm suggesting is a shift in perspective. Instead of viewing hard work as a negative, see it as a testament to your passion. And with passion comes the desire to grow, learn, excel, and win! Most people who know me know that I approach my work with the mindset of a competitive athlete and that approach has served me well over the years. If you want to win a National Championship at any level, you have to work hard and be passionate about your goal. It is that simple. I want to win not only in my business life but also in my personal life.
Continuous Learning: The Key to Balance
The world is evolving, and so should we. The skills and knowledge that got us here won't necessarily take us to the next level. Continuous learning is the bridge between where we are and where we want to be. It's the fuel that drives growth, both personally and professionally.
But here's another truth: Learning requires work. It requires time, effort, and sometimes even a bit of frustration. But the rewards?
They're immeasurable!
When we equip ourselves with new skills and knowledge, we not only become better at our jobs but also find more efficient ways to get things done. This efficiency can lead to better work/life balance, as we're able to achieve more in less time.
Why Skills-Based Training Matters
At Butler Street, we've always emphasized the importance of skills-based training. Why? Because it's actionable. Theory is great, but in the real world, you need practical skills to navigate challenges, lead teams, and drive results.
Our upcoming workshops on leveraging ChatGPT, are designed with this in mind. We want to equip professionals with the tools they need to excel in their roles, without feeling overwhelmed. ChatGPT, with its advanced AI capabilities, offers personalized learning experiences, ensuring that every participant gets the most out of the training. Will it take work? Yes, but the return on the investment of time and satisfaction will be exponential. I am getting things done with my new “assistant” in minutes v. hours and sometimes days.
Embrace Growth
To my fellow professionals, I'd say this: Don't shy away from hard work. Instead, channel that energy into continuous learning and growth. Embrace every opportunity to enhance your skills, whether it's through formal training, workshops, or even everyday experiences---develop skills that will improve relationships.
Remember, it's not about working harder; it's about working smarter. And with the right skills and mindset, you'll find that elusive balance we all seek.
To learn more about how you can leverage “technology for transactions and people for relationships,” join us in our upcoming workshops and let's embark on this journey of growth together. Because when you love what you do, you won't work hard a day in your life.
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