Hard Work Is Not Enough

We all know that hard work is needed to be truly successful.

However, we also know that hard work alone is not enough.

We need our hard work to be in the right direction.

One common expression of this phenomenon is that managers are very good at doing things right, but leaders are good at ensuring the right thing is done.

But we have still not completed our list of success factors.

We have all seen those who work very hard (perhaps even including ourselves at times) fall from their peak of performance due to exhaustion or burnout.

Many of the great thinkers and successful people throughout history have raised the need for ‘down time’, when the mind and body are able to recover from their exertions and prepare themselves for the next phase of hard work.

This recovery time might include rest, relaxation, reflection but might include sport and  exercise – anything that contributes to an overall life balance.

So structure such periods into your day/week of hard work snd you are likely to get results which are better – or at least as good- but you will survive in a better state.  After all, we are seeking long-term productivity, not short bursts of success.