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Principles of a Good Work Ethic



A good work ethic is adherence to a set of values developed by an individual.

In some instances, a good work ethic can override the necessity of certain skill sets. For example, if an individual lacks certain skills necessary for a specific position, the fact that he or she is willing to put in the extra effort to learn these skills can mean the difference between being hired or not being hired. A good work ethic encompasses a set of values that will ensure job security and success in the workplace. A good work ethic can result in promotion and privilege.

Those with good work ethics set for themselves high standards of behavior and quality of work. They have genuine consideration for their employer, colleagues, and clients, and willingly go above and beyond their job descriptions.

In streams of conversation, it is often said, “he is a hard worker.” This statement implies that the individual demonstrates specific principles in the workplace. These principles can be endurance, good judgement and adaptability. Those with good work ethics respect privacy of others, are trustworthy, and are creative thinkers.

They have an endurance that leads to accomplishment, focusing on the task at hand. For example, an employee who possesses endurance looks forward to an outcome instead of watching the clock. It means thinking from the end.

Good work ethics can include a focus on solutions rather than dwelling on the drama of the problem. Through the most difficult situations, individuals with good work ethics can patiently work through conflict before a situation escalates.

An individual with a good work ethic possesses a willingness to learn different ways of accomplishing tasks, and through trial and error, will identify the most cost-effective and time-effective methods of sales and production.

A good work ethic entails having a positive attitude, working through the tasks at hand with enthusiasm. It is seeing the best in every situation and in everyone, embracing all aspects of the workplace: the clients, the colleagues, and the products and services.

Those with a good work ethic are willing to go above and beyond that which is required, mindless of the time and focused on completing a job and doing it well.

Volunteerism in the workplace is evident in those with a good work ethic, manifested through a willingness to donate time for no immediate gain. It is an observation that “you get back what you put out.”

A good work ethic is a willingness to support others in the same environment, and perhaps offering expertise and emotional support as needed.

Additionally, those with a good work ethic understand the value in learning from others of different perspectives. They see value in agreeing to disagree, and that not everyone thinks alike. They realize that learning to listen to those with different experiences can expand their own skill sets and knowledge base.

Other principles of a good work ethic are teamwork, self-motivation, leadership, and above all, trustworthiness.

Although education can certainly afford employment security, luxury, and greater opportunity, it may not teach the above-mentioned.

A good work ethic does not necessarily afford a life of monetary prosperity, but it does ensure abundance in the form of lasting connections with others, credible references and marketable skill sets.

A good work ethic is a merit of it’s own in this world.



Angela McMullen is a freelance writer who lives and writes in maritime Nova Scotia, where she is inspired by the rhythm of the Bay of Fundy tides, the pulse of long-standing forests, the expansive fields of the Annapolis Valley, the backdrop of North and South mountain ranges, and the distinction of the four seasons. www.forestwriting.com


Angela's most recent work is a slim book of poetry that captures the pure essence of nature and her unwavering resilience. Infused with undertones of Italian influence, this collection of poetry speaks for itself.


https://www.amazon.com/s?k=angela+hutchinson+mcmullen+poplars+dancing+in+the+wind&ref=nb_sb_noss

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