Hard Work is a Must

by Zig Ziglar

Yes, hard work is necessary. In society today, many people are somewhat like the fellow who, when asked how long he had been working for his company, responded, "Ever since they threatened to fire me!" Unfortunately, too many people don't take their work seriously until their employment is endangered. The same may be true in your relationships with your mate and your children: Only when you get into trouble do you get serious about working to solve the problem. \

Instead of waiting to be chastised for doing sub-par work and neglecting your responsibilities, apply yourself now and remove that feeling of dread or impending doom from the corners of your mind. Set yourself free by giving your best in every situation.

The hard-work principle also applies to maintaining your marriage. Suppose that your mate is critically injured in an auto accident and can no longer be your playmate, companion, and co participant in dancing, sports, swimming, travel, and other things that you love to do together. In order to be successful as a mate, you need to remember the commitment and the good times and understand that disasters or tragedies cause one of two things to happen: You either grow closer to each other, or you decide that you're not going to be a "sacrificial lamb" and jump ship.

Historically speaking, those folks who maintain and work at their commitment develop a new interest in activities that frequently enables them to grow even closer and serve as role models for their children, friends, and other members of the family. Keep in mind that you took each other "for better or worse."

Nothing is quite as satisfying as succeeding under difficult circumstances. If success is always a smooth ride, you may enjoy it, but you'll gain very little satisfaction from it.

Adapted from Success for Dummies © 1998 by IDG Books Worldwide, Inc.