SUJagFan
Well-Known Member
Not trying to "coddle" him. I just think he needs to do what works for him. I didn't hear lazy in his post. Seems like he does what needs to be done to get the work done. Should he go over and beyond? None of us know that but him. In my opinion, that depends on where and who he works with/for. Sometimes you can work your butt off and it still gets you nowhere; then it's (should be) time to look elsewhere.
In everything, there should be balance. Don't work yourself to death (literally for some) that you don't enjoy life outside of work. Unless you're self-employed, you can work yourself crazy only to be let go- especially in this economy. Employers aren't loyal to you; don't be so loyal to them. Work smart, not hard (unless that's just your true, natural work ethic), and that can be done without over extending yourself with the right game plan.
“The happy life is thought to be one of excellence; now an excellent life requires exertion, and does not consist in amusement.” - Aristotle
That "just enough to get by" attitude gets people fired. Laid off. Bankrupt. Divorced.
If anything in life is worth doing, it is worth doing well. To be notable in any field, one must be outstanding. Must stand out. In effort. In attitude. In results. No one is suggesting that a person should spend every waking hour working and have no time to enjoy life. However, the willingness to get up early, stay late and work hard is one of the differences in people that cannot be denied. Excellence is valued throughout the world. No matter what field of endeavor, we notice and acclaim those who are outstanding.
“Excellent things are rare.” - Plato
And, therefore, more valuable. Whether that is an employee, car, jewelry, spouse ... anything. In my opinion, if we have a choice between being excellent and doing just enough to get by ... the higher standard is always preferable.