Those That Half-Ass Anything, Usually Half-Ass Everything
Those who commit themselves to being the best at whatever the task or position may be will always be more successful in the long run. The people who put effort into all that they do are far more likely to achieve their truest, most passionate life goals.
We see this theory proven time and time again with our server teams within our hospitality companies. They are often younger professionals in their primary careers who take on an ancillary serving position. It may be for side income, added socialization (which is very important to mental health), or an additional outlet that makes them feel more fulfilled. The people who truly dive into the position are almost always all-stars in nearly everything they do. The people who put in the bare minimum effort rarely seem to thrive in anything they pursue.
This is not to say that every task, at all times, needs maximum effort to the point of exhaustion. People need to pace themselves, especially with physical labor, and common sense should always be applied. However, from a broader perspective, we consistently see that those who put real effort, diligence, and consideration into their side hustles tend to excel in their main hustle as well.
The same holds true for entry-level full-time positions, volunteers at events and functions, or any of the countless examples of people in roles that may not be their primary aspiration in life. Yet they treat the moment as important — because it is important to someone. They are responsible. They see the forest for the trees. They build character and work ethic that absolutely carries over into everything they do.
When someone treats their summer job like a nuisance (even if it may feel like one) and doesn’t care about the outcome — or about how their lack of effort negatively impacts those around them — those individuals often believe they are “above” the work they’re doing. That mindset tends to stick. This group is rarely satisfied, often blaming others for shortcomings rather than putting in the effort to change or improve their situation.
If you are going to invest your most important resource — your time — put the effort in. Be responsible to those around you. Even if you don’t envision yourself working in a fast-food restaurant, as a bartender, or in whatever role you currently hold, recognize that the habits, discipline, and mindset you deploy will stay with you for life.
Treat the job as an opportunity to grow and contribute — not as a hassle that keeps you from something else you’d rather be doing.
By Chris Sinclair
Founder, The Anthem Group
