While the media might often make it seem like hard work is dead and that everyone is just ghosting their lives away, we’ve seen countless examples of how strong the work ethic is on every street and in every neighborhood in America. Hard work is alive and well and we asked some of the hardest working folks we know how they developed their work ethic.
Ryan McVey
I get my work ethic from my parents and mentors. My parents instilled in me that success is not given it’s earned. It takes hard work and dedication to accomplish your goals. From my mentors, that if you want to be above average and live your dreams, you have to be willing to do what others aren’t doing and be the hardest worker in the room. Winners Win, Losers Lose. Read more>>
Ashley Davidson
I have always been a driven person. My mom says I was determined to do things well from a young age. I likely got that from her. She is a perfectionist, in the best way possible. I grew up as a classically trained dancer (started dancing at the age of 2). It was “my life” for so long. I would attend school and then head to dance after school was over. I actually got PE credit during Middle and High School for the amount of time that I danced. I grew up in a family with high expectations about education. So, if I faltered in my grades, I would not have been able to dance. Read more>>
Mayuko Ono Gray
I think the best thing ever happened to me is that I almost died. After experiencing that, you come back to normal life with very different view of life. The biggest change for me was that I started to really appreciate the opportunity to be still here in this physical body, allowing me to make more art each day. I consider ‘time’ to be the most important asset we all have equally, and the one that you cannot purchase no matter how rich you are. Read more>>
Tiara Lane
To be honest, I do have a lazy side to me at times, if it’s something I don’t want to do (lol). That’s sort of why I’ve pursued and am still pursuing a life where I’m solely operating in my own gifts and passion. I have a strong work ethic when it comes to things I’m really skilled at or truly enjoy doing (creative directing, modeling, acting, helping people). But, I think I’ve always been somewhat naturally driven. Read more>>
Kelsey Bellanca
Growing up and, I guess even still, I am the only daughter of a single mother who never received child support or government assistance. We moved in with my grandmother when my grandfather died in order to help her learn how to live without him and for my mom to have childcare help with me. During this time, my mom also went back to school to become a teacher in order to have a schedule more aligned with mine as well as an income that could support both of us. Read more>>
Kyle Cervantes
My dad for sure. Even when I was young he’d always tell me, “CAN, not CAN’T!” even if it did drive me crazy at the time. He was very right. Growing up I watched him work himself like crazy for myself and my siblings to have a life where we could do what we loved. The part of him that sees obstacles as temporary and his mental fortitude to forge a path with skills he possesses is what I try to carry with me. Read more>>
Cassandra Taylor Empey
I got my work ethic from my Dad. Starting a family at a young age, he rose to the challenge of supporting my Mom, me, and my two sisters. I got my first job when I was 16, but by then I had been babysitting for years, and I understood what it meant to be able to have ‘fun money’ as well as setting money aside to save. When you’re young, it’s nice to have some sort of motivation for saving and that is how I got my first camera. I’ll never forget that feeling when I had enough and was able to go buy the camera I’d been wishing for. And I honestly haven’t stopped working since. I’m known as the odd-job finder in my family, and being in video and photography has opened me up to so many wonderful opportunities. Read more>>
Brittany Dew
My father was an illustrator and started a children’s book publishing company. From the time I could walk, my family (mother, father, sister and myself) spent our days at the book bindery. I was given work from the time I was very little including sewing books, working machinery, sorting books, sending them through the glue machine, cleaning, and more. Over the years my sister and I would come to resent the workload and missed summer vacations, however I learned what it meant to show up and do a job day after day and I never saw someone who was a harder worker than my father. Read more>>
Claire Howell
I believe I got my work ethic from my rigorous classical dance training, my coaches and teachers, my circumstances in life, and my mom. I had a mom who did all she could for two kids independently. I never felt like we were super disadvantaged, even though we were. She completed her schooling and made time for her kids to be well-rounded individuals exposed to different activities and the arts. We got to take on interests and even find out what we didn’t like so much. My mom led me to dance because I wanted to be a figure skater. It’s a costly sport so we started with dance. She taught me to finish what you start. The actions I witnessed from her was “when there is a will, there is a way”. I think I carried that through life, even in challenging moments where I wanted to quit. Read more>>
Forrest Cramer
My work ethic definitely came from my dad. Growing up, he was an example of a hard worker, never leaving at quitting time but staying until the job was done, and done well. He taught me that hard work pays off, and that the things that matter sometimes take a long time to achieve; that slow and steady wins the race. That mentality is difficult to hold onto in today’s society, where we want to build an empire and achieve wealth overnight. At times, through my journey as a furniture designer/builder, progress seems so slow in the moment, but looking back I realize the wisdom gained in the journey. Read more>>
Brenna McGowan
Well, first, I’m Gen X — work ethic was engrained in us from the beginning! Joking aside, my strong work ethic came from watching my parents. My father was a traveling salesman who worked his tail off to provide for our family. With no degree, he went from delivering beer in Newark, New Jersey to eventually becoming the National Sales Manager for Panasonic. He always taught us to be honest, work hard, and do what you say. My dad traveled a lot for work, and my mother stayed at home and took care of us. She worked tirelessly to make sure we were taken care of, and had to do the work of both parents sometimes. I’m very blessed to have such great examples in my life with such hard-working parents. Read more>>
Jaclyn Moy
I think it comes from constantly craving to experience new things. When you are doing what you love everyday, it’s just an ongoing adventure and the money follows. It feels good to work on projects. This journey has led me to the most beautiful people and rewarding projects that have hopefully positively impacted their viewers and audiences. I also have to give a lot of the credit to my father. He engrained in my brain since I was born that I could achieve everything and anything I wanted in life. I took his words quite literally and the rest is history. Read more>>
Marvis Cox Sr.
My strong work ethic stems from the inspiring examples set by my mother and grandmother. Growing up, I witnessed my mother’s dedication as she worked double shifts to provide for the family, and my grandmother’s commitment to caring for all her grandchildren. Additionally, my father’s occupation as a bus driver showcased the importance of diligence and responsibility. These influential figures instilled in me a deep appreciation for hard work and the value of perseverance. Their unwavering dedication and sacrifice, as well as my time and training in the military serve as a constant reminder for me to always strive for excellence and make a positive impact in my community. Read more>>
Lina Saba
My father led by example throughout his life. He was such a hard worker. He worked 7 days a week and never complained. He was an electrical engineer and not only supported our family but his parents too. I derive a lot of my work ethic from him. I miss him dearly and know he is still watching over me from above. Read more>>
Monique Hudson
Since my early years, I’ve been instilled with the expectation of achieving excellence, leaving no room to allow excuses or societal barriers to determine my destiny. When I speak of “excuses,” I recognize that, as a young girl of color, I faced unique challenges compared to my peers. My journey toward success, both in and outside the corporate world, began at an early age. Often finding myself as the only person of color in various environments, even at times within the public education system, I learned to advocate for myself and actively sought enrollment in honors coursework. Read more>>
Jamal-Akil Marshall
I’m someone who was the worlds most renowned procrastinator. This habitual need to wait till the last minute to get work done was obvious during my high school years. Even as I’m reflecting on this behavior, I had no idea how it developed. Today at age 34 I learned undiagnosed ADHD played a considerable role. The stress that took place from an approaching deadline potentially being missed wasn’t enough to alter my actions. I almost missed graduating from high school due to numerous assignments never turned in until it was too late. I would have spurts after close calls like this where I’d intentionally get assignments and projects complete. Read more>>
Dirk and Michelle Uys
We are both professionals with a background in Engineering and Pharmacy respectively. We learned from early on that our actions are what determine the outcome of our customer or patient. When we started Temecula Wine Country E-bike Rentals and Uys Garagiste Winery we naturally translated that to our current business to provide a high quality guest experience. Our focus is to treat our guests as if they are family. That is what drives our work ethic and quest to continuously improve quality and guest experiences. Read more>>
Kimberly Marie
As a business owner, student, dog mom, and soon to be wife, my job seems to never be done! My work ethic comes from accepting my role as a busy woman, and setting priorities and deadlines for myself. I’ve learned to be kind to myself when things don’t go as planned, because being unorganized and sleep deprived is very stressful and overwhelming for me. A positive mindset is the key to getting through the day, and sometimes a funny movie or some feel good music helps me to get things done! Read more>>
Kim Fain
My work ethic has been shaped by the experiences and responsibilities that I’ve shouldered as a single mother who had three young children, all under the age of 5. As the sole provider, I had no choice but to cultivate a strong work ethic. Each day, I committed myself to working hard to secure and maintain my job, knowing that it was crucial for covering essential expenses like daycare, groceries, and clothing for my kids. Read more>>
Zuzia Kudasik
As an entrepreneur, developing an insatiable work ethic has been the driving force behind my small business. My parents are two of the most hardworking individuals that I have ever met, and their timeless dedication to their business has always been my source of hope when it comes to working. I also think that having two incredible older sisters inspired me to see how actions create opportunities while learning from their mistakes too. I am so grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow while creating a future that I am excited to be a part of! Read more>>
Matthew Braman
My dad passed away in January 2022. I can still hear his voice telling me, as he often did while I was growing up, “You have to do what you need to do first so you can do what you want to do after”. As a young boy, my dad made an effort to bring me along with him to run errands. He included me in doing favors and side jobs for other people, and he gave me responsibilities like doing chores, caring for my dog, and cleaning up after myself. Read more>>
Kayla Ussery
My work ethic comes from my why. The whole reason I was able to build and run this business was due to being a mother and God. The drive I have to provide for my family has pushed me immensely.
Shantavia Smith
I believe it came from me coming up in poverty and watching dance movies, such as You Got Served, Step Up, those type of movies. There wasn’t much eat in the house or a lot to do outside. So, me and my cousins would practice day and night when I was about 7 until we got the moves down to a science. We wouldn’t sleep unless it was perfect. Everything had to align. We just knew we would be on tv like them one day. I’m the only one that continued to pursue my passion for dance and pretty much the arts. I was extremely determined not to be in a repeated cycle of what I seen around me growing up. Read more>>
Carl Jackson
It came from my grandfather, Carl Jackson Sr. He used to shine shoes and he owned 2 locations in Fort Worth Texas. He would get up a 5 am and be at his location at 6 am. Then go to his home shop and work from 6p until 9p. Watching him work like that made me realize at a young age that owning a business was the key but you had to treat every minute like a dollar earned or a dollar lost. Read more>>
LaTonya Holston
My mom has always been the hardest worker I know. Growing up, I saw her tirelessly juggle raising three kids, working multiple jobs, and still managing to volunteer at our childhood church. It wasn’t just the sheer amount of work she did that impressed me, but the way she did it: with a smile, a positive attitude, and a never-say-die spirit. Read more>>
Kristin Clark
My work ethic comes from both nature and nurture. One thing I am certain of is that I LOVE to work. I started my first ‘real’ job at the age of 14. I scooped ice cream at Baskin Robbins while I was in 8th grade. I learned that I liked working much more than I liked school. Mainly because it gave me a sense of purpose. I was able to put myself through private high school and paid my way through college without batting an eye. Read more>>
Eugenia Gamero
My mother was always and to this day continues to be the most hard working women I know, she managed to keep a house of 3 kids afloat and re invent herself in many ways, artistically and professionally, she has survived many personal, economical and political crisis and always done it with love and joy. Read more>>
Lakesia Williams
My work ethic is a direct reflection of my mom and life choices/circumstances. My mom was the hardest working woman I knew. I always looked up to how strong, determined and dedicated she was, all while raising 4 children, working two jobs and going to college. I didn’t always have this “strong work ethic.” I started working as a cashier at the age of 16 and I’ve been working every since then, but I didn’t want to work too hard. Read more>>
Natalie Anchondo
I would have to say that my work ethic was taught to me from my dad. I come from a humble family, neither one of my parents ever attended college and there are seven children total. I am the youngest of those seven children. Now, although we may not have had a lot of money growing up somehow we were always taken care of. My dad used to drive an hour and half, work a full day, drive home, sleep a few hours, get up and work through the night, come home, sleep a couple hours and do it all over again. I don’t think I’ve ever known someone as hard working as my dad. Read more>>
Ethan West
My work ethic comes from multiple places as most character traits do. One of the most present in my reflections would be tied to my upbringing and being raised by two incredibly kind and hard-working parents. My mom taught me to lead with my heart while working with my hands. Day in and day out she would be taking care of the land, taking care of our family, and ensuring that at every step of the way there was an understanding amongst me and my siblings of our relationship to the earth and our responsibility to life around us. Read more>>
Javaris Jordan
My unwavering work ethic finds its roots in the admirable example set by my late mother. She, with one bachelor’s and two master’s degrees, not only graduated high school in 1994 while raising me but also excelled in demanding factory work. Even after achieving her diploma goals, her commitment only intensified. Witnessing her dedication, I absorbed the lesson that achieving goals requires persistent effort, regardless of fatigue. Read more>>
Jessica Law
My family. I am a first generation kid from Canada, whose parents worked incredibly hard for everything we had. I have a very real awareness that my parents didn’t have the same opportunities to pursue their dreams, so my work ethic comes from gratitude and the behavior that was modeled in front of me. Read more>>
Koku Gonza
My work ethic is motivated by my personal goals. I set a goal and I create steps to reach that goal. Sometimes I have to make adjustments to the plan, however the outcome is still amazing. Read more>>
Elias Mohammed
My work ethic as a photographer is fueled by a passion for capturing moments that tell meaningful stories. The desire to convey emotions and create lasting memories drives me to consistently refine my skills and dedicate myself to the craft. Read more>>
Jenna Fournier
I’m going to give the credit here to my father. When I was a little girl, we were living in one of many brand new cookie cutter developments in Las Vegas, Nevada, which was the fastest-growing area in the United States back in the late 90s. Our back yard was entirely desert dirt. If you dug into it and added a little water, you could make clay that would dry and harden in the sun. So I would make little cats and figurines, and my father would set me up on the sidewalk to sell them, and take them to his work to sell them to his coworkers and bring me back $7 to re-invest into better quality clay. Read more>>
Zamina Donaldson
I learned my work ethic from my mother. I grew up watching her work a handful of jobs to make sure my brother and I had more than enough. When a job didn’t server her anymore or didn’t fit the family’s needs she pivoted to another. My mother always found a way no matter the circumstances. Read more>>
Chereese Moore
In the quiet corners of my upbringing, where life was far from easy and dreams often felt like distant stars, I discovered the essence of my work ethic. I met my mother when she was 15 years old, and I am the eldest of ten children. Our journey began in the shadows of welfare and food stamps, navigating a turbulent sea of uncertainty. Read more>>
Noah Jesse
In college when my friends would come over, it wouldn’t be your typical chill on the couch and watch anime. Although we did plenty of that, at a certain point the power of music creation had sucked me in. I’d be sitting in my studio morphing new sounds with every waking moment from 4pm-3am then I’d get up for class at 8am again and do it all over again. Going to music school for 4 years helped me become a musician. I was able to have time to shed, something I fell in love with. Read more>>
Joe Homs
My work ethic is a product of a multifaceted blend of influences, each contributing uniquely to the person I am today. Firstly, my family laid the foundational values of hard work and resilience. Growing up, I was actively involved in physical labor alongside my dad and grandfather, such as fixing houses, doing yard work, and engaging in other forms of hands-on work. These experiences were not just about the tasks at hand, but also about learning the virtues of hard work, patience, and persistence. Read more>>
D’Lisa Khademi
I feel that in business many places have this attitude of “I am going to get mine no matter the cost.” Having a work ethic I can stand behind is so important. This, in many ways, is your legacy. How you treat people, how you make them feel, how you lift them up, it’s this attitude and work ethic that people will remember you by. I always try to treat people, both clients and colleagues with respect and kindness. Read more>>
Michalis Papakalodoukas
I was raised in an environment which didn’t support the arts. It was understandable when someone considers the time and the place. My family believed when I was young, that I should know to do something that will get me a job more conveniently than being an artist, so I wasn’t sent to art school like I wanted initially. I became a business owner and entrepreneur at a very young age owning my own places in the hospitality industry, and through that I would always find a way to be creative. Read more>>
Girly Anderson
My grandmother was a remarkable woman who migrated from Cuba with just the clothes on her back. She worked tirelessly, utilizing all of her resources and strength to establish a laundry mat, daycare center, and lounge, which served as the cornerstone for her family’s foundation. My grandmother instilled in me the value of persistence and determination, teaching me never to accept “no” as an answer. Despite facing language barriers and the negative stigma surrounding immigrants, she remained unwavering in her pursuit of her dreams and taking care of her loved ones. Read more>>
Joanna “JoJo” Rosholm
Definitely my dad. He worked two full time jobs when I was growing up. He was reliable and took his work seriously. And my grandma who watched me while he worked! She filled her days by caring for others (as a registered nurse, my caregiver and in her local senior center) and always showed up with a diplomatic point of view. To this date, I still couldn’t tell you who/which party she voted for! Read more>>
Dominique Higgins
I definitely get my work ethic from the women in my family. My mom has been a real estate broker for well over 30 years, and growing up I just remember her always hustling. Looking at properties on weekends, calling clients at night, and going above and beyond to make her career work. Likewise, my godmother carried a similar work ethic, getting up everyday at 4:30am for over 20 years. So, I very much got the message early on that you have to put in the hours and make certain sacrifices to create a life that you desire. Read more>>
Ashley Boxer
My mother and visibility to women in the workforce. I grew up in a tough and loving Chinese Jamaican home in Miami, Florida. When my parents separated when I was eighteen months old, we moved in with my mom’s parents. My mom’s family migrated to Miami in the late 1970s from Kingston, Jamaica. To say I had an upbringing similar to those around me would be far from the truth, however, it was one that showed me unconditional love in a variety of love languages, self-sufficiency, dedication, and perseverance. Read more>>
