Growing up, I was taught to prioritize accountability, responsibility, and hard work. “Let actions speak louder than words,” has always been my core belief. However, after spending a couple of decades in the workforce, I’ve realized that good things come to those who take them, rather than those who wait. If you want it, ask for it, and take it. Most importantly, saying no to most people and standing firm in those decisions is paramount. I’ve spent my fair share of overnight hours and weekends laboring to build someone else’s castle. I was known for my hardworking and accountable attitude. All my colleagues knew that I wouldn’t give up until the last minute. If someone quit and no one else could pick up their work? People knew I would take it on, ensuring no delays. But I suppose, I won’t be taken advantage of anymore. It’s time to build my own castle instead of others’. If your castle falls because of your poor planning, I ain’t going down with you, for I know I can always build my own castle, anywhere, anytime.
And for those just starting out in the workforce, know that your relationship with your job is purely transactional/ give & take. There’s no such thing as you’re blessed by the employer with the job. They need something from you i.e your skills/capabilities thus they give you the role.
Here are what netizens think:
- Being transactional at work is not a bad thing. It prevents/limits one from getting too emotionally attached with the job. The job is not one’s identity. One does not stop one’s role as a spouse, parent or child after leaving or changing jobs. That’s the wrong perception to have.
- Nothing wrong with accountability, responsibility and hardwork, for me we are paid to work, so long work i can get it done within the 8 hours, i am fine. I had been a pain to the management, i always challenge their unfairness and injustice and even though i am really really good with everything i did, they will throw works to me last minute when other colleagues were assigned but cannot make it. I am ok with no promotion for years as i know i don’t suck up with them. I completed tasks that were meant for people who are much higher ranks than me and I am proud of myself. I live by my principles with no regrets. Life is never fair and that is life, we cannot control others but we can take charge of ourself.
- Colleagues who prioritise accountability, hard work and responsibility make the workplace, a place we spend most of our waking hours, a much better, happier, safer, and less hostile environment.
- That’s the reason why they said work smart, not hard