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Hard Work

"We may have invented capitalism, but we took our eye off the ball. Perhaps it is our complacency, but the truth of the matter is that we are being outworked from the boardroom to the factory floor. In my travels overseas, I have seen a hunger for success far greater than what I see at home. If your counterpart anywhere in the world is willing to work harder then you, they win, you lose. This applies whether you are a CEO or a pipe-fitter." - Mike Neiss (TomPeters.com)

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I came across this the other day and found it very "on-point" regarding the state of employment, the economy and globalization.

I see way too many people sitting around and blaming others for their problems. It appears that most people have gotten very lazy and would rather spend time complaining about the situation rather than trying to improve themselves and their situation.

Most steps being taken including Project Labor Agreements (PLA's), attempts to unionize the technology industry, union agreements that are out-of-touch with the realities of business and other political moves are all very short-term patches that will do nothing to cure the problem.

These steps will only weaken our position because they delay the American worker's need to innovate and improve themselves.

Here's one thing I have a hard time reconciling in my mind - on one hand I watch the news and it points to this widespread unemployment caused by "X" and on the other hand I've NEVER talked to a business owner or executive who claims to have all the good people they need.

Are both sides right? The answer is yes. Business owners and managers WILL find ways to serve their customers and keep their businesses alive. The problem is the average person is NOT taking responsibility for making sure their skills match the requirements of the businesses.

It's much easier to sit back and expect that a union or the government or the business owner will take care of them.

THIS THOUGHT PROCESS WILL ONLY LEAD TO FAILURE!

The other thing I find amazing is that people are still complaining about this even though we are in an age where information is nearing zero cost. If someone were motivated with an internet connection, bus pass and public library card they could become very productive in almost any field, allowing them to make a very good living.

Sorry for ranting about this so much but this is a serious problem and people do need to start taking personal responsibility rather than expecting someone else to solve their problems.

Posted by David on December 11, 2005 03:30 PM|Permalink

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