Hi Belinda,
I agree. When we complain, we also surrender our ability to change things. If we buy into the idea that our circumstances are someone else’s fault, then it is natural to believe it is someone else who will fix them.

Hi Evita,
So true. A strong work ethic shouldn’t be job specific. It is important to try to do your best no matter what job you are doing. Thanks!

Hi Jannie,
Congratulations on recording an album. That is a big accomplishment. Ya know, I think when we assume that people like Will Smith got to where they are because they are talented, we are making a big mistake. When we do that we are giving ourselves a pass not to try to be great. It’s funny you mentioned learning to sing. I am working on a post about my brief experience doing that
.-= Ralph´s last post…My Guest Post on The Bold Life.com =-.

I remember seeing the Will Smith interview last year where he talked about his perceived “lack of talent” and the hard hard work he had to put in. Plus, he seems like such a nice and humble guy.

It was a long, long road for me to learn to sing. Even tho I recorded my album over a year ago, I feel it’s just really been in the last few months I’ve finally found a stronger new voice, one that comes effortlessly.

If you love what you set your mind to and truly put in the effort to learn and push yourself there can be no ” fail. ” It may take time but it’ll happen.
.-= Jannie Funster-Mistress´s last post…“Yes – Kids Sure Do Say The Darndest Things” Part 2 =-.

Ralph – wow, through your writing I can tell so much about how you approach not just working, but life in general. I so agree with what you said, but especially the part about our thoughts….yes they do have such an influence over our lives indeed, and two the whole work ethic part.

I have to tell you I came here from another country too, and I knew that working well with integrity, honesty and dedication was a normal thing, but also one that would help me be in life greatly. Well it did. And I am so grateful for all that my parents taught me when it came to that.

For me, it is not about the job, it doesn’t matter whether the person is a cleaner or a doctor, what matters is do how do they do their job – what is their work ethic that really matters in the end…
.-= Evita´s last post…Hope For Haiti – You Can Help =-.

“Work harder on yourself” — so true. And while it seems most of us know this, still, we hear so many among us complaining about others or about our perceived “raw deal”: “So and so gives me a bad vibe”, “I never have any fun”, etc. The reality is working on ourselves is very fulfilling. And when we work on ourselves, we become poised to inspire others and be the kind of leader that helps other people see their potential. Working hard on ourselves will yield positive results. Complaining won’t. How much better off would we all be if isntead of complaining, we worked on ourselves?

Wilma,
I love your humor! What a wonderful father you had. Yes let’s not forget team effort and delegating. Both are ingredients for success. x0x Yes I think good catch as well. But Ralph found me and was bold enough to ask to be a guest. I thought he fit right in.

Karl,
Good point about knowing yourself in order to know our needs. Makes all the sense in the world.

Hillary,
You have been through so much be gentle on yourself. How about getting up earlier in 15 minute increments? Take it in small steps. I was just telling my daughter this morning that I don’t plan on sitting around in my 70′s or 80′s. My parents didn’t either until they physically couldn’t work anymore.

Ralph,
Thanks again for being my guest and you’re welcome back in the future!

Thank for allowing me to be a guest on your blog. You are a sweetheart! I was very impressed when I first found your blog and it feels great to be part of it.

Kevin,

Thanks! I also enjoy researching about hard work. Thats why I like to read biographies because there are so many examples in the stories about the lives of successful people.

Peggy,

Thank you so much! I hope you get as much-if not more-value out of it the second time around.

Sara,

I love the idea of retiring from your job in order to engage in work that you love. Congratulations! Blogging/writing is challenging but it can be rewarding in so many ways. BTW, great avatar picture.

Megan,

Thanks Megan! I wish you happiness and success too

Suzen,

So true. Things we get seem to have more value when we work for them. When I was working with my dad he used to give me money. My mom liked to remind me that when I buy something with that money I am not paying with cash, I am paying with sweat. I think we value our relationships, professions, and successes more when there is effort that precedes them. Thanks for the kind words!
.-= Ralph´s last post…My Guest Post on The Bold Life.com =-.

Angelia,
Wow Angelia! There are so many gems in your comment that I don’t even know where to start. First, I love “be proud of your work” Thats powerful! Second, I love the fact that you made the effort to increase your value. So many people in the workforce miss how important that is. Third, I love the fact the you taught yourself! Taking responsibility for our own education is imperative. I’m confident that the others areas of your life will benefit from your work ethic. Thanks!

Suzie,
Hey There! Good to connect with you again. Small blogosphere isn’t it? I look forward to staying in touch

Susan,
Thank you so much! That really means a lot to me.

Colbycheeze,
You’re absolutely right. Get rich quick schemes usually turn into get broke quicker schemes. Lasting success really depends on how much the individual is willing to put into what they are doing.

Wilma,
Thats a great point. Working with a team is important. I worked with my sister also who is older than me. I learned a lot by watching how much effort she put into everything that she was doing. Hey, you’re right! Tess is helping me become successful. Thanks Tess

Karl Staib
Absolutely true. We really need to know ourselves before we can know what are needs are. Thanks for the comment Karl!

Hilary
Beautiful, Hilary! So many people spend the majority of their time doing something that will not produce a positive return. It’s a shame but so many people waste valuable time. Glad to hear that you are going to try to wake up earlier. It will make a huge difference. Let me know if you need any assistance. I’d be happy to offer some tips.
.-= Ralph´s last post…My Guest Post on The Bold Life.com =-.