I believe in hard work. In waking up early and putting in at least a solid eight hours of working with your hands. In dirt and grime under your fingernails from a respectable day’s work. I work to secure my position as the provider for my friends and loved ones. When someone asks me for something or if I can help them in some way, I love being able to respond yes, with no hesitation. But as the provider I have to constantly work, and that is a choice that I knowingly made from the start. If I did not work as hard as I do, I would feel useless and restless.
My work ethic comes from my father. He is one of the most hard working men I know. Growing up I always had everything that I needed plus more. My brother and sister can say the same. A hot meal has been on the table every night, and I have had clothes on my back every day of my life. I know that the reason my father can provide for my family is because of his work ethic. In my household when you are old enough to do for yourself you are expected to do so. If you could reach the stove you could scramble an egg.
Not accepting free hand outs from those that feel they are better off than me. Scholarships are the only are the exceptions to my rule, but only because they are a product of hard work. My work ethic carries over to my schoolwork as well. When I have assignment, I put everything I have into it. I do my best to achieve the best results. If I cannot complete the assignment on my own, I seek help.
Competition from others only inspirers me to work harder than the rest. I want to be the best at everything I do. When I learn something new I try to master it as soon as I can. When I started playing football I did not know anything but within a month I was well on my way to becoming a captain. In high school I balanced my seven hour school day with a three hour practice. After that and still managed to work at least 20 hours a weak. In college I have 13 credit hours of class, play rugby at least 4 days a week and still work 30 hours a week. And for each of these activities I give 100 percent.
My self-reward at the end of the day is sleep. Sleep is good for hard workers like myself because we know that bright and early the next morning there will be work to be done. I carry my trophies with me on a daily bases, callused hands, cuts and bruises. Each mark has a story that can be proudly shared request.