Work Ethic: Leading by Example
If there’s one lesson that has shaped every step of my journey, it’s that success is never an accident but rather a direct result of relentless work ethic. Through decades in family business, corporate leadership, and hands-on craftsmanship, I’ve learned that showing up, giving your all, and refusing to settle are what truly set people apart.
Lesson One: Work Is Non-Negotiable
I’ll never forget the morning I dragged myself into the sheet metal shop after barely sleeping the night before. My dad was already heading out the door, and when I arrived a few minutes late, he just grinned and said, “Damn boy, I didn’t think you were going to make it today.” My answer was simple but telling: “You never told me not coming to work was an option.” That exchange stuck with me, shaping my approach to every role and responsibility since. In my world, work isn’t optional, it’s a given. It’s about honoring commitments, respecting the people who count on you, and building a reputation for reliability. If you’re not willing to show up, you can’t expect opportunities to show up for you.
From Paper Routes to Professional Growth
My work ethic was forged early. I took over my sister’s paper route as a kid, waking up before dawn with my grandparents to deliver the news while the rest of the world slept. Those mornings taught me discipline and responsibility. It wasn’t glamorous, but it was foundational. Later, whether mowing lawns for $8 an hour or taking on extra shifts, I learned that every job, no matter how small, deserves your best effort. These experiences built the discipline and resilience that carried me through larger challenges down the road.
My Career Blueprint: 3 Work Ethic Principles
1. Be Present—Always
Being present means more than just clocking in. It’s about engaging fully, staying alert to what’s happening around you, and constantly looking for ways to add value. Whether I was a summer laborer or leading a team of thousands, I found that those who are mentally present. The ones that can pay attention, ask questions, and anticipate needs are the ones who get noticed and trusted with more responsibility.
2. Give 100% to Your Current Role
There’s a temptation to always look ahead, to chase the next promotion or job title. But I learned that the best way to advance is to excel where you are. Early in my career, I banked vacation hours, not wanting to miss a single moment that might lead to growth or recognition. If you’re not committed to mastering your current role, you’ll miss out on the skills and relationships that open doors to the next one.
3. Your Starting Point Doesn’t Define You
I’ve seen people rise from humble beginnings to major leadership roles. It wasn’t because they had the best starting point, but because they outworked everyone else. Where you start is just your launchpad. What matters is how much you’re willing to invest in yourself, learn, and push through adversity. Consistent effort and a willingness to do the hard things create opportunities that others never see.
Family, Legacy, and Learning by Example
My father’s example left a deep mark on me. Watching him leave for work before dawn, sometimes juggling multiple jobs, I saw firsthand the sacrifices required to provide for a family and build a legacy. I also saw what happened when others didn’t value that same consistency. The contrast shaped my values and clarified the kind of leader, parent, and professional I wanted to be. Family legacy isn’t just about inheriting a business or a name. It’s about upholding a standard and passing on values that endure.
My Message to Aspiring Professionals
Work ethic isn’t just about showing up. It’s about making a habit of excellence, even when no one’s watching. It’s about being so committed that missing a day or cutting corners simply isn’t an option. The years you spend grinding, learning, and investing in your craft lay the foundation for the success others will eventually see. If you want to get ahead, start by asking yourself: “How often do I truly show up? Am I doing my best, even when it’s hard or inconvenient?” Success is a choice you make every day. In my experience, it’s the consistent, relentless, and absolutely non-negotiable commitment to work ethic that makes all the difference.
