Work Smartly

By R. David Silva

Is Hard Work the key to business success?

We often hear that if you work "hard", you'll be successful. Or the road to success is paved with "hard" work.  And what is hard work?  Does it require long hours; taking a stuffed briefcase home; or turning your soul over to the company?  These may be examples of hard work but there is a better way to approach your responsibilities and the development of your career: working smartly.

While success demands an intensity of effort and focus, most successful business people are able to step back and assess the issues and the barriers to achieving departmental or company goals.  This stepping back prevents getting lost in the trees and lets one better understand the nature of the forest.

Working smartly means conceptualizing what one is facing in trying to achieve goals.  The true key to success is found in the creative development of a solution to (in a way around) the issues and barriers.  What businesses are often looking for are innovative strategies that guide plans and programs aimed at accomplishing an objective.  

To work smartly you have to let the brain take a break and work its magic.  Getting out of the trees by participating in non-work activities, allows the mind to subconsciously play with alternatives. Eventually this play will provide you with the "idea" that solves the problem.  After the break the idea often pops into your head when you come back to the business situation.  Your fresh eyes see linkages and solutions that were previously blocked out.

So give your brain a break and see how productive your mind can be. Try working smartly.

 R. David Silva

Business Editor

 25+ years experience in the world of business/marketing
silva@4fashionadvice.com