Why working harder than everyone else is still the best way to get ahead
In the world of work and your career, it’s often said that success is determined by one’s willingness to do what others are not willing to do. This can mean going more than the extra mile, putting in long hours, or taking on tasks that others consider to be of the highest importance yet, the level of commitment is undesirable. But what does it really mean to do what others are not willing to do, and how can you use this mindset to excel in your career?
First, it’s important to understand that doing what others are not willing to do generally means working harder than everyone else. It’s also about working smarter. This means identifying areas where you can add value, and then taking an unconventional initiative to make it happen. For example, if you notice that your team is struggling with a particular task, you could offer to take on that task and find a way to streamline the process. This shows that you are not only willing to put in the extra effort, but you also have the skills and creativity to find solutions.
Another key aspect of doing what others are not willing to do is being willing to take risks. Generally higher than normal risks but still calculated. If others are not willing to do it, it’s probably a bigger risk than average. This means stepping out of your comfort zone and trying new things. For example, if you’re an experienced salesperson, you might be hesitant to try a new sales technique. But if you’re willing to experiment and take a chance, you may discover a new approach that works even better.
It’s also important to be willing to put in the extra hours when necessary. This means staying late to finish a project or coming in early to prepare for a meeting. While it’s not always fun to work longer hours, it can be a powerful way to demonstrate your commitment to your job and your team. Also, these hours may go unpaid. Remember, the greatest access to power is what you are willing to do for free. Working unpaid hours is playing the long game for your career so be patient and log your unpaid hours in a notebook. The greatest achievers in history had a mindset of “Success at any cost necessary.”
Finally, doing what others are not willing to do also means being willing to take on the “grunt work.” This means doing the tasks that no one else wants to do, such as cleaning up the office or organizing the filing cabinet. While these tasks may not be glamorous, they are important for keeping the office running smoothly. By taking on these tasks, you show that you are the kind of person without limits and are willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done.
In conclusion, doing what others are not willing to do at work is about being willing to go the extra mile, take risks, put in the extra hours, and take on the tasks no one wants to do. It’s not only about working harder than everyone else, it’s about working smarter than everyone else. By using this mindset, you can set yourself apart from your colleagues and excel in your career.
Machiavelli said, “There is no avoiding war; it can only be postponed to the advantage of others.” This means if you don’t do what others are not willing to do, someone else will and they will be taking all your success.
