Where do you get your work ethic from?

We’ve all heard the phrase “work hard, play hard,” but where does our work ethic come from? Is it something we learn from our parents, or are we born with it? Do our friends, work environment or the city we reside in impact it? We asked some of the hardest working folks we know to share where they think they get their work ethic from.

Rita Grendze

I grew up in a frugal immigrant household, youngest of six kids. There wasn’t much that went to waste in our house, clothes were home-made, patched, and worn until they wore out. Books were read and re-read until dog-eared. Toys were used in unorthodox ways to get the most fun out of them, often long past age appropriateness. We truly were a scrappy bunch: resourceful, creative, contentious, determined. We were not always each other’s best friends, but we were family. Read more>>

Marva Soogrim

Growing up on the island of Trinidad and coming from a large family, we learned early on in life that work was very important and we were taught to do chores around the house. We had structure in our day and knew what our duties were. From the age of four and a half, I had to wake up by 4:30 in the morning and head to the beach along with my other siblings to meet our father’s boat as he docked with his overnight catch of fish. I would follow my older siblings to learn how to bring in the fish, his tools, lunch box and wet fisherman cloak. To me, it was fun as I loved waking up while it was still dark and going to the beach. Read more>>

Kenneth Groom

My work ethic is deeply rooted in the examples set by my parents, who were both committed to their professions and to teaching me the value of hard work. Whether it was my dad, diligently working for the Department of Transportation, or my mom, dedicated to her role in food service, they both coached me to understand and appreciate the importance of having marketable skills. They instilled in me not just the desire to succeed, but the integrity and perseverance needed to make a meaningful impact. Read more>>

Jhoanna Alba

I get my work ethic from both my parents. They imigrated from the Philippines in their late 20s. With 4 children to care for, my mother worked as a chemist during the day, and my father worked in the evenings as a night auditor for the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel. I witnessed the sacrifices they made for me and my siblings. As a single mother, I strive to instill the same values in my daughter that I grew up with. Read more>>

Vicente Hernandez

I get my work ethic from my father. He was a Cuban immigrant who taught me how to survive with little. In elementary school I learned how to create with my hands things that would be worth hundreds and thousands of dollars. He taught me how to start my own business in middle school selling candy. At a young age I was shown legal hustling. It engraved in me a anything is possible if you work hard enough and are creative enough mentality. Read more>>

Michelle Thompson

Work ethic is something I value deeply as an artist and a teacher, and it’s something I try to demonstrate and teach my own children. As I young child my mom was such an amazing example of what it means to have a strong work ethic. She came to the United States when she was 18 years old and built an amazing life for herself, and a great deal of that was because of her work ethic. She showed me that consistency and showing up with a readiness to work and work with others is extremely important. As I began to get more serious in my dance training, I learned about work ethic from my teachers and coaches. I quickly realized that consistent work was the best way to improve. Read more>>

Michael Huntington

I was born in Enid, Oklahoma, in 1996 to my parents, Brenda and Mark Huntington. Though I have many siblings—a story for another time—I grew up alongside two: Shawn and Krista. Krista, a few years my senior, felt like a little sister to me. She faced challenges due to a learning disability that affected her development. Despite this, we formed a close bond at a young age, becoming best friends and spending countless hours immersed in movies together. Read more>>

Sierra Marque

Growing up, my father was an entrepreneur, trying to make it in the business world, and no matter how many times he failed. He never gave up. This really didn’t inspire me, my father is a major influence on me and my work ethic. Read more>>

Yigit – Alp Efe

Our work ethic comes from a mix of personal drive and the lessons we’ve learned on the way and from those around us. Growing up, we were always taught that nothing worthwhile comes easy, we carried that mindset into everything we do. For us, it’s not just about working hard for hours on end, it’s about knowing what to work on, working smart and the most importantly staying consistent. Whether it’s hitting the gym every day or staying up late to perfect a design, fixing the performance errors on the website end. We know that success is a long game. Plus, we’ve always been motivated by the idea of building something bigger than ourselves—Boys With Broken Hearts isn’t just a brand to us, it’s a reflection of who we are and what we believe in. When you’re passionate about what you’re creating, it doesn’t feel like work; it’s just part of the hustle. Read more>>

Chris Strait

Honestly, from fear of regret. I turn a negative trait into a positive one. I wish I had done/said/not done/not said many things in my life. Yet, to avoid loop-thinking myself into depression, I extract the lesson, and move forward. Do it now, as you will regret it later if you do not. Also, I love the feeling of a project completed. Whether it’s bringing a new comedy routine to fruition, or writing an e-book, or even just having my to-do list completed… there is always satisfaction from seeing it through. Read more>>

Cheyenne Porras

My work ethic undoubtedly comes from my mother which, in turn, came from hers. All throughout my life, I can remember countless times my mother has selflessly given herself and her time to various projects and jobs. Looking at it from an employee perspective, she has always given 110% in any job she has taken whether she was paid $5/hr or $500 (wishful thinking) – she gave the same amount of herself. However, I have also witnessed her give so much of her hours to volunteer work. She spends hours helping others where needed, working on church projects and just helping others whenever the moments would arise.  Read more>>

Bash Ortega

For art, my work ethic is ingrained in me. I feel compelled to create because it is the thing that makes me feel like myself and also makes me feel good. My art is very much a part of me. I have a variety of creative disciplines including drawing, printmaking, crafting, and both fiction and nonfiction writing. I have ADHD, so my attention to a specific task comes in waves, but I am generally always interested in working on something. Read more>>

Molly Bergman

I believe my work ethic comes from a combination of my upbringing, my peers, and personal experiences.
My parents are the hardest workers I know. They have always taught and continue to teach me the importance of responsibility, dedication and the principle that hard work pays off.
I also like to surround myself with peers that inspire and motivate me to work harder at what I’m doing – whether it be in school, music, or life.
Passion for what I do is the main key to what drives me to keep learning and improving each day. Music and songwriting has been one of the biggest parts of my life since I was a little girl, and my love for it fuels my commitment towards it. Read more>>

Bailey Laing

I get my work ethic from a multitude of things- my mom’s strong belief in her children, the restaurants for being the longest toxic relationship of my life, & my childhood for making me live in fight or flight until I could literally flee. I grew up around drug addicts & alcoholics. I didn’t have the financial privilege or prestigious last name to lean on. I worked in restaurants doing every position; serving, cooking, dishwashing, working doubles or having 2 jobs. I had to rely on myself to get money to take me places, I wasn’t going to stay in that 3000 person horse town. I was going to do more than anyone there ever expected of me. Read more>>

Jere Cassidy

This is such an easy question because I have known this since I was a little girl. My work ethic comes from the very strong women in my life: my mother, my two grandmothers and my aunt. Read more>>

Matthew Yeandle

Growing up i watched my Grandparents and parents work to build familys and businesses with diligence. As a young man i embraced my entrepreneurial qualities building on my dreams and talents through education, hard work and exploration. Read more>>

David Loebman

My work ethic is rooted in structure, routine, and balance. When working independently, setting a realistic schedule is key. For me, it’s a 10-5 workday, Monday through Friday. Having small rituals in the morning—like walking the dogs or brewing a cup of coffee—helps me transition into ‘work mode’ and establishes a rhythm for the day. Read more>>

Sean Conner

I get my work ethic from my grandmother, Marlene Langston. I spent my Saturday mornings with her, either scouring newspapers for the best garage sales or setting up our own makeshift store on the front lawn. Those days taught me how to haggle, spot value in products, and handle people with confidence. My grandmother owned her own store while working a full-time job, and now, even in retirement, she mentors small businesses. Those moments shaped my approach to work and taught me that dedication and resourcefulness go hand in hand. Read more>>

Liz Dominis

My mother. As a kid I looked at my mum for inspiration. She dedicated her life to her profession, whilst raising three young children. Honestly I don’t know how she did it but I knew that that’s what I wanted to do too but in my own way. When I saw her studying, I wanted to study too. I saw her reading a book and so I thought to do the same – except she was doing high level literature – and I’d summarize Lizzie McGuire books. Read more>>

Marnie Kunz

My parents, especially my dad. He is always proactive and likes to stay busy, and I am the same way. I also find it hard to sit still for long so like to stay active and be on the move. Read more>>

Kristy Squire

My family is from humble beginnings. I watched my parents work incredibly hard to provide for my three siblings and I as they had married young and began a family. No matter how hard it may have been they started their day early in the morning, worked a full day at work and still managed to volunteer to coach our soccer teams and see to all of our needs. There were times I know we barely scraped by yet my parents did not give up on themselves. In my childhood I watched my Mom go back to school to finish her diploma and go on to attend nursing school. Read more>> 

Katelyn Byng

I get my work ethic from my parents. They’re both incredibly hard working, honest people. They showed me the value in truly finding the strength to pursue something you desire, and to not stop until you get it. However, they also showed me the value in kindness and achieving goals honestly. Their integrity inspires me and will forever be my guiding compass. Read more>>

Michael Vincent

My family environment had a big impact on my work ethic, my parents’ experiences in different jobs, and my ability to listen—especially when I was growing up. Getting hands-on experience in various work settings can teach important lessons about sticking with tasks and teamwork while encouraging a more open attitude. Read more>>

Jean Carlos Falcon

I’ve been working my whole life. As an immigrant and a child of immigrants, I spent the majority of my childhood working at my family’s grocery store. After school, weekends, you name it. It made me understand that you need hard work to go places, especially when you start out with no connections. Read more>>

Erin Macneil

Starting from a young age I had a very good work ethic. I lost both parents by the time I was 8 years old and because of that I do feel that I had to grow up fast. I was left in the care of family members that I wasn’t very close with and I never felt comfortable to ask for help as they weren’t welcoming, loving, affectionate or encouraging. I was forced to figure out how to do things for myself. It’s not an ideal way to gain a great work ethic but it has served me in so many ways. I am able to take action and make decisions without feeling too much hesitation. When you can just get things done, take charge and sort out what needs to happen next you can move faster and further. Read more>>

Harold Jutajero

I got my work ethic from my mother which she instilled in me to this day. She was an RN, BSN nurse for over 30 years being the breadwinner, taking care of 3 boys, and being an entrepreneur herself running an asian grocery store. After high school, she put me through college at Pace University, NY where I studied and earned 2 bachelor degrees – Information Technology and Communication Media Studies. Instead of nursing, I had to forge my own path as well in the tech industry as an IT engineer. The world was obviously changing and leveraging the experience I had at Pace, I decided to find and create my own side hustles which was Auxxilus Fitness Wear, Auxxilus Media, and my brand Haroldefinition.com. After facing several rejections and setbacks, I grew stronger and more resilient. Each challenge taught me valuable lessons and helped me develop a solid work ethic. Through these experiences, I discovered my purpose which was to motivate and inspire others to find their true calling and reach their full potential in life. Read more>>

Ziggy Bornas

I believe my work ethic comes from my love of storytelling and the power it has. Not everyone has a reality that they enjoy, and the fact that people can come to watch theater brings them into a world for 90 minutes a night is magical. I believe that everyone should have access to theater, and as a designer, I try to draw the audience in. Make them part of the story. There is something so special about that, and that’s why I work so hard because I know that at least someone will watch the show and feel the wonder and joy I feel when I create it. Putting in that extra time is always worth it, and it’s not about the title or the credit, it is about what people will feel while they watch it, the joy they experience, and the world they are pulled into. Read more>>

Greg O’connor

I got my work ethic from my parents. My father started working when he was eight years old after his father passed away. He did everything from shining shoes to a newspaper route to parking cars. My dad and his six brothers put themselves through school and they all worked to help support their mother who used to serve home made food for people outside their back door during the depression. He and my mother worked hard and built a successful life together for over 65 years. My dad always used to say, “There are talkers and there are doers” and “By the time you have finished bitching about it you could have had it done.” Read more>>

Cassandra Vilicich

I developed my work ethic from a young age, watching my parents work hard and instill the importance of dedication and perseverance. As I grew, I embraced those values, and they became even more essential when I started Beachside Wax and Glow. Running a business requires consistency, attention to detail, and a passion for your craft, which I take pride in. I love providing my clients with the best service possible, and that drive to excel is what keeps me motivated every day. Read more>>

Liza Pruitt

I credit my parents for my work ethic. Growing up, I watched them pour their hearts into everything they did, whether it was in their careers or within our family. They taught me the value of hard work, dedication, and always going the extra mile. Their example showed me that success isn’t just about talent but about consistency, resilience, and a genuine love for what you do. Those lessons have stayed with me and drive me every day in my own journey with Liza Pruitt. Read more>>

Enjoli Branch

My work ethic comes from my mother, who taught me what it means to work with both grit and grace. She owns her own salon, and from a young age, I was right there beside her, learning the ins and outs of running a business. Watching her rise early, work late, and treat every customer like family, I saw firsthand the power of dedication and heart. Read more>>

Sunir Patel

The work ethic comes directly from my dad – he installed it in me at a young age. He is incredibly hard working, emigrated to the U.S. in his early 20’s, and worked at General Electric for 40 years. I saw that, and I also (now as an adult) realized that he did it to do the best he could for our family. He really pushed us to work hard in school, even to the point where he would “create” homework for us, such as his own custom-made math tables! We had a strict study schedule. If I wanted to go hang out with friends or have band practice, I had to study first. When I was a teenager, I may have resented this, but I know why he did it. That’s the sort of thing that gave me the work ethic that I have today. Read more>>

Lauryn Savela

I grew up as a competitive athlete. I played many sports including softball, soccer, volleyball, and track and field. At 14 I qualified to my first national competition for the Javelin throw, and for the next few years I would train at a very high level. I trained 4-5 days a week with competitions on the weekend. This training really proved to me the power of dedication and hard work. Every season I set a new personal best, and at my fourth nationals I placed 3rd in the country. Read more>>

Victoria Pappas, Esq.

I get my work ethic from growing up in a household where hard work was a necessity. My parents, Greek immigrants, showed me resilience and determination every day. My mother cleaned houses, and my father, despite his disability, never gave up. From a young age, I worked alongside my mom cleaning houses, waited tables, and did sales to put myself through college and law school because I had no choice but to work hard. No job was beneath me because work is work, and that mindset is what drove me to where I am today. Read more>>

Diana Hernandez

work ethic comes from a combination of early independence and the diverse experiences I’ve had. Growing up in Colombia, starting to work at such a young age taught my self-reliance, and moving to New York at 18 to study acting at Lee Strasberg really honed your skills as an actor and model. My time in LA working for Channel 62 and Univision, where i interviewed high-profile celebrities such as Matthew mcconaughey, Dwayne Johnson, Kevin Costner , JLO and more, further shaped my professional journey. I also completed a double major in Political Science and International Relations, with a minor in Middle Eastern Studies, which further shaped me into who I am today. Read more>>

Darrick Atwater

I developed my work ethic through a combination of passion for sound design, the discipline learned in recovery, and the desire to push creative boundaries. After overcoming addiction and getting sober on 11/11/09, I realized that structure, accountability, and drive were essential not just for staying sober but also for succeeding in my career. The dedication I applied to recovery has translated directly into how I approach my work—whether it’s crafting sound presets or creating content for major audio companies. Read more>>

Linda Love

My father was a great example of an ethical hard worker. He never missed a day of work, was dedicated and honest. He took the high road even when upper management made decisions he did not agree with. He rode his bike to work every day, in the rain or snow, and his subordinates liked him so much, they all pitched in and bought him a new bike! His example was key for my own work ethic. He believed honesty is the best policy. When faced with decisions of my own, his belief became my own. Honesty keeps life more simple and drama free. In the accounting world, one sure way to lose it all is to be dishonest.  Read more>>

Alaina Duran

For 2 generations I have watched hard work and excellence, in all things, between my grandparents and my parents. My grandparents were entrepreneurs, they started and ran a very successful upholstery business. My grandpa was mister fix it, he could fix anything. He refinished our kitchen table top several times, he rescreened all of our windows, he tended to our scraped knees, the list goes on and on. Read more>>

Sara Collazo Romay

My work ethic definitely comes from my family. I grew up watching the members of my family work hard to build their own businesses. My uncle and aunt owned a language school. My grandparents owned a restaurant and my dad owned a newspaper stand right across the street. My childhood was spent crossing the street between one business and the other, hanging out in the kitchen with my grandma or reading fashion magazines sitting on the stand’s floor. I watched my family work long hours and most days of the year, for a while I thought I didn’t want that life, but it turns out there is a sense of freedom, purpose, and agency that comes with owning your own business that I think I was primed to gravitate towards. It drives everything I do and I think it is what I was always destined to do. Read more>>

Kylie Fair Anderson

I am a painter, and I feel incredibly blessed to get to pursue my passion every day. I have always considered myself a very driven individual with anything I have ever set my mind to, and my art career has been no different. I absolutely love what I do, and I approach it every day with excitement and determination. Whether it’s spending hours on site working on a painting, driving to a particular location to get that perfect paint worthy view, or waking up early to get the perfect lighting for a reference photo, I am up to the challenge. I believe that my work ethic comes from a strong passion for my craft, my dedication, setting goals for myself, and holding myself accountable to the promises I have made myself. Read more>>

Anna Slusser

As a nurse I have had the humbling experience of interacting with many people during different phases of the human lifespan. To this day this is an immediate shock to the system as a reminder that life is fleeting. I have seen many people hold on tightly, and a fear of not living fully while they could. Being confronted with your own mortality is both depressing and incredibly motivating. Read more>>

Erika Bond

My work ethic was instilled in me at an early age. I’ve always had a strong inner drive to succeed, which motivated me to put in the necessary effort. Whether it was striving for good grades in school or advancing in my professional career, my determination has always been at the core of everything I do. Now, with All-Love, my focus is on truly changing the perception of inclusivity within the sport of tennis. So I will do all that I can to work towards achieving that goal. I try to embody values like reliability, consistency, adaptability, discipline, and perseverance. But more than that, I’m always looking for ways to test and strengthen these traits across all aspects of my work and personal life. To me, a strong work ethic isn’t just about hard work—it’s about being relentless in your pursuit of growth and excellence. Read more>>

Franchesca Finds

My work ethic definitely came from my dad. I am first generation American. My father came from Peru and my mother from Colombia, both as teenagers. They were able to create successful salons in LA starting with nothing. I am so grateful for not only the work ethic they instilled but teaching me to prepare for anything. I was able to survive being shut down through out the pandemic, with no assistance. I am one of the lucky beauty business owners because of their example. Read more>>

Amy Stewart

I get my work ethic from my grandmother, June Stewart. She owned her own business, Kansas City Market Research, and gave me my first job when I was little. She had an office in her basement where she kept her inventory and would make phone calls to survey the people who blind-tested products like soda, dish washing soap, and laundry detergent. She worked until she was 80 years old and if she hadn’t have broken her leg, I don’t think she ever would have stopped. I know most people think she worked for too long, but it fueled her and she loved it. Read more>>

Lucas Forrester

My work ethic comes from a combination of life experiences that shaped me from a young age. Growing up in a poor family, raised by a single mom with two brothers, I learned early on that nothing comes easy, and if I wanted something, I had to work for it. That drive to achieve more than my circumstances taught me the value of hard work and perseverance. Read more>>

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