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July 15, 2005
Why do you work so hard?
I like to work hard, and to play hard. Asians, in general (and I am generalising a lot here) like to work hard. It is known that Americans also work hard.
But there is an increasing discussion about a reasonable Work/Life balance, and how much a corporation can ask from their employees.
It is okay to live in a 24/7 world, but where is the line? I like to work a lot - well, I am saying that I am working all the time. When I read books at home or surf the web - read blogs or the news or dig up information from something, when I watch the news, Discovery Channel, or even exchange views with friends - somehow, I learn, and I try to use what I learn at work. Basically, I am always at work and I have fun doing it. The main point is that I need to develop my skills, to have the choice to do what I want to do. Because one day, any company will come and say sorry, time to move on - we don't need you anymore. Or they close down or downsize.
That is me - as long as I enjoy it, I have my Work/ Life Balance, because it is my choice to decide, where I draw the line. Others might see it differently, and an increasing number, at least in the States, drop out altogether - their choice, of course.
Here is a link to one interesting write-up about Working Hard. Its not hard to read, and may be, you can pick a piece here or there. (Found at Slacker Manager)
Posted by Andreas at July 15, 2005 11:08 AM
Comments
Thanks for the link. Its timely read for me.
Posted by: mumsgather at July 21, 2005 01:31 PM
Hmm.. honestly, if its doing uninteresting things, like balancing a checkbook, or sorting a list of names, it's hard to get motivated to work hard. I think it goes the same way for everyone, because when it comes to the things that interest them, or means life or death to them, they won't hesitate to work hard.
Working hard is really a state of mind, I think. Sure, you exert yourself mind and body when doing so, but the thing that makes a difference is whether or not you enjoy it.
You seem to enjoy working hard, Andreas. Perhaps it's because you're German :D lol, jk
Posted by: Silencers at July 17, 2005 06:03 PM
The balance of work and play is always an issue.
My sort of work- assignments,test,exam, entertaining people who are important in my life, attending necessary social fuctions to bond and expand circle of friends.
my sort of play- aerobics, pool,netball,swimming, snorkelling, travelling, beach,reading comics and mystery novels, hanging out in the city shopping with close friends, going to the hair saloon and beauty centre.
I reckon we all have to put much effort and play the game when we work So that we are not being eliminate. the dough earning continues......
I think i would work hard so i can get sufficient money to spend on my PLAY part.-n.p-
Posted by: viv at July 15, 2005 02:22 PM
That article sure was an eye opener. The education system is creating drones for corporations. Heheheh.
Personally, it's like peer pressure. Everyone your age is going up the ladder, providing for their family, buying cars, getting married. The mindset is, you can't have any of that if you dont work hard for a company.
The question is, do I really want any of that? What do I really want?
Posted by: BawangMerah at July 15, 2005 12:06 PM