Hard Work Isn’t Old School, It Still Works
When No One Is Watching, Keep Working
Hello,
How are you doing today? I hope you’re staying strong and doing your best, even in the middle of all life is throwing your way. I just wanted to take a few minutes to check in and share something that’s been on my heart, something I believe will encourage you.
We live in a time where everyone is chasing fast results, quick money, shortcuts, and overnight success. Social media shows us the finished picture, but it rarely shows the work behind it. In the middle of all this noise, I’ve been reminded again and again of this truth:
Hard work isn’t old school — it still works. And it always will.
A few weeks ago, I was working on a national health project. I had just returned from a week of field travel, moving between local government areas, checking up on health teams, and making sure things were running smoothly. I got home completely drained. My back ached. My head was pounding. But work didn’t stop.
That same night, I had to lead a review meeting. The meeting was scheduled for 8 PM, and as usual, some people didn’t show up on time. I had to wait, follow up with calls and messages, and still lead the meeting with a calm and professional tone. Even though I was tired, I couldn’t afford to act carelessly. People were watching. And beyond that, I had to maintain the standard I believe in.
Right after that meeting, I had to jump into marking Cambridge exam papers. My eyes were already heavy, but deadlines don’t care how you feel. So I stayed up, did my part, and submitted the scores before the system closed.
The next day, I still had to coordinate my store in Lagos—checking in with my secretary and dispatch rider, responding to online orders, and making sure deliveries were completed. Nobody saw all of this. It wasn’t glamorous. But that’s what real work looks like sometimes: silent, steady, and strong.
In all of this, I’ve learned (and I’m still learning) that being hardworking and disciplined doesn’t make you old school, it makes you trustworthy.
Here’s what I know for sure:
People trust those who show up. Not just when it’s convenient, but when it’s hard.
Hard work builds character. Even when no one claps for you, the effort changes you.
You may not be the loudest, but your consistency will speak for you.
We can’t always control the results. But we can control our effort, our integrity, and our attitude. And these things will always matter—whether you’re a teacher, tech expert, business owner, field officer, parent, or student.
Let’s Bring Back the Basics
I’m not here to act perfect, I get tired too. I sometimes want to give up. But I’ve seen that the path to true and lasting success is not in shortcuts. It’s in showing up every day, even when you don’t feel like it.
Let’s bring back these values:
Doing things excellently, even when no one is watching
Respecting time, both yours and others’
Finishing what we start, not leaving things halfway
Being honest, even when it costs us
Being dependable, so that people can trust our word
These may not be loud values, but they are lasting values.
Workplace Examples You Might Relate To
The cleaner at the office who sweeps the hallway before everyone arrives. No applause, but the space is always clean. That’s work ethic.
The young intern who stays back to double-check reports, not because she’s asked to, but because she wants to learn and improve. That’s work ethic.
The staff member who reminds everyone to pray before starting the day. That’s spiritual discipline and leadership.
You don’t have to be perfect or the best. But if you’re faithful, consistent, and willing to grow, you will go far.
A Gentle Reminder
Your efforts may feel invisible now, but trust me they are building something strong. Your work matters, your discipline matters, your attitude matters.
Hard work may look slow, but it always pays off.
Don’t get tired of doing what’s right. Keep building. Keep growing. Keep trusting that God sees it all—and in His time, you will reap the harvest.
Quote to Remember:
"Success doesn’t come from what you do once in a while. It comes from what you do every day." — Marie Forleo
Thank You for Reading
Thank you for taking time to read this. I hope it reminded you of your strength. I’m cheering you on. Keep doing your best, even when no one claps. You're not just working for people. You’re working for purpose.
With respect and encouragement,
Joe Adetarami from IntelligenceX
P.S. I’d love to hear from you. What are your thoughts on work ethics today? What’s one value that has helped you stay consistent in your journey?
👏👏❤️