There are always rewards to hard work
This is an interesting article in the "Atlantic" (old though it may be) that, in summary,
states that people who work hard or are exceedingly productive are disgruntled because they
are put upon by their employers and their peers. Before I get out the violins, I'd like to
share my point of view...
Here is my take on this from both the viewpoint of an employer (I have been a hiring manager
for the last 10+ years in technology) and a productive employee (at least I consider myself so :-).
"Cream rises to the top," yes it does, even in a homogenized society. Work and life are slow-motion
sorting hats (hat tip to Harry Potter). The harder you work, the more dependable, productive,
motivated, and knowledgable you are, the more is put on your plate. Yes, that is true.
"If you want something done, give it to a busy person." Another truism.
However, this is not without benefits which, I believe, seriously outweigh any unmotivated alternative.
Q: If layoffs are coming, who do you think will not be on the list? Yes, its the most productive ones.
Q: Bonuses are to be paid, raises to be given out, awards of all kinds. Who are to earn these? Yes, you have it, the motivated ones.
Q: When there is an opening for a leadership position, who do you think will be given first consideration? Yes, you are correct again, the one who produces.
There is also something else, a qualitative benefit, of looking back and seeing what you have accomplished. Of seeing a job well-done and knowing that you gave your all and it mattered. It showed.
To put this into philosophical terms, good, hard work is an intrinsic good. This means that it is good in and of itself, even without external validation and even without reward.
But it should be acknowledged and rewarded...
Q: Do you work hard and the work is not acknowledged? Do you outproduce and it is not recognized over time? Does someone else (your boss?) takes credit for it?
A: This happens, sometimes. It is an example of exceedingly poor management (IMHO). However, it is not a sign that you should stop being productive, but rather that maybe you should consider taking yourself and your productivity elsewhere, where it will be respected and rewarded.
"Be well, do good work, and keep in touch.” - Garrison Keillor