Ever wish you could get a hefty raise? Want to enjoy some of the finer things in life as you climb to the top? Read on to find the secret to advancement and wealth that many don’t know and even fewer practice.
Work harder than everyone around you.
Too Simple?
After reading such simple advice, you’re probably thinking to yourself, “yeah right! I work hard and I never get promoted! The way I see it, I’m stuck being paid basically what my salary is now, so I may as well coast through the day as best I can to at least enjoy myself a little.” Don’t let this lie get you—instead, follow the sage advice of Scripture:
Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. (Colossians 3:23-24)
Good Work, Not More Work
Note that the verse says “with all your heart.” We should not misconstrue hard work with excessive time spent at the office, rather, there should be a focus on productivity and enthusiasm, behaving as if you were doing work personally for a king, not just a client or a boss.
This kind of excellence in your work will get you rewarded. It may take time, and it may not be from within your current company or industry, but as God promises, He will see to your reward. Not only this, but there is a very practical benefit that comes with pouring yourself into the work at hand and doing your very best: you learn things. As you accomplish work in one week that your neighbor would streach out to two, you’ve effectively gained one week of experience over him. You are more seasoned and capable, and as this pattern continues over time, you’ll become the “go-to guy” in many areas of your business. Your neighbor thought he was getting a better deal by taking the same salary as you while doing less work, but long-term, he’s actually been cheating himself.
Don’t Believe It?
As usual, I challenge you to test these claims in your everyday life. While this is a simple and easily-understood principle, a person who’ll put it in practice is quite a rarity in today’s workplace. Besides, you’ve got nothing to lose but inexperience and a low salary! 😉