In today's ever-changing landscape, a growing discourse surrounds work-life balance and redefining success in a new light. A light where achievement and goals are not always viewed as important meshed with an apathetic acceptance of mediocrity. Whether this is driven by changing societal values and norms or pushed as a narrative by media in general, I’m not sure.
As an entrepreneur now in my 50’s who has witnessed the shifting perspectives of different generations and having actually known people who were born in the late 1800s, I draw inspiration from the great work ethics of those who pioneered the path before me in eras not dominated by social media feeds and constant bombardment of needless information.
My feeling? We could use a little old fashioned work ethic these days.
My direct ancestors’ careers varied from copper miners to a successful businessman, a farmer to a pioneering female college graduate in the 1920s. My relatives exemplified the transformative power of taking action which was engrained in me. Each in their own way, struggled, persevered, and reached their goals. Through legacies, stories and family legends left behind, they forged an inner drive inside me that I follow.
That’s why when I see stories about how ambition is not “cool” and people want balance in their lives by simply doing just enough to get by at work, it’s disheartening to me. Likely the pandemic was the catalyst for this mentality but to achieve anything in life, one has to put in the effort.
You may have similar stories of grandparents or those close to you, who achieved great things and when you reflect on their efforts you feel a sense of inspiration. It’s hard not to.
The challenge today is we’re faced with media, political and societal influences that often ignore the classic values of the past while continuing to lower societal expectations and pigeonhole generations. I’m tired of reading articles about how one generation is different than the other and we have to accommodate changing ideas. Rather than focusing on the perceived differences between generations, let’s celebrate the timeless values that can unite us all.
Maybe I’m too old fashioned but I stand firm on this – if you want to make anything of yourself, you’re going to need self discipline. You have to work smart too, but the formula for success at anything includes having the ability to simply give a solid effort and persevere even when you don’t feel like it.
It’s absolutely essential to break free from those who push a “lower your expectations” mindset and instead cultivate the mindset of a winner.
Ignore predetermined definitions of success and chart your own path. Just as my relatives before me, we must align our aspirations with our unique passions and values.
Regardless of our chosen endeavors, consistent and unwavering effort remains the catalyst that transforms dreams into reality. Through this we can reach our true potential and redefine success on our own terms while inspiring generations into the future.