The Value of Work

Today in the United States we celebrated “Labor Day.” Many businesses and government entities were closed and workers had the day off. Other employees worked to keep restaurants, hospitals, and retail establishments open. Whether you worked or enjoyed a day off today, I hope you were able to celebrate the opportunity to work, whether at home, at school, in a paid or volunteer workplace, and other locations in the community!

As my husband and I work with young adults to prepare them for employment, we note a significant difference between those who were raised with a strong work ethic, and those who would rather not break a sweat, preferably on the couch with a video game, TV, or access to the Internet. We’re hearing from many employers, “Young people today just don’t want to work!”

There are many things that can help instill a strong work ethic in children and young people. Modeling the need and benefits to working hard, providing incentives and rewards, providing clear expectations and negative consequences for not meeting them, working without financial reward (at home or in the community) but talking about the other benefits (connections to others, feeling good about contributing, gaining experience and work references, etc.) are all ways to teach the value of hard work.

I had hoped to end this Social Incites™ article with a quote that summed up the importance of a good work ethic. However, I found so many good quotes that I was unable to choose just one. Instead, if you follow this link, you’ll read several good quotes from successful people who have learned the value of work.

Best wishes as you head back to whatever work awaits you this week…may it provide for your daily needs, help you grow, give opportunities to connect in meaningful ways with others, and provide satisfaction in knowing that you are contributing to others.