Work Ethic

Showing up, doing the work, and giving your best — every time.

Why It Matters

Talent helps, but effort is what gets results.


Work ethic means you take your responsibilities seriously, do your best even when no one’s watching, and finish what you start.

How You Know You’ve Got It

  1. You give full effort—even when it’s not fun

  2. You meet deadlines and take pride in your work

  3. You don’t need someone constantly checking on you to stay focused

How To Level Up

  1. Set one goal and work toward it a little every day

  2. Focus on quality, not just speed

  3. When tempted to cut corners, ask: “Would I be proud of this?”

Where This Shows Up Later

  • Skilled Trades

    Consistency and follow-through matter more than flash

  • Entrepreneurship

    Building something from nothing takes grit, not shortcuts

  • Careers

    Employers notice who brings effort every single day

  • Athletics

    Talent fades without hard work behind it

Famous People Who Flex This Skill

  • J.J. Watt

    Known for relentless training, hustle, and leading by example

  • Viola Davis

    Praised for unmatched dedication and intensity in every role

  • Howard Schultz

    Former Starbucks CEO, started with nothing and built through drive and discipline