Discipline. A sense of responsibility. Integrity. A dedication to quality.
These are just a few traits that describe one’s work ethic. And while you might be a hard worker, you also have a ton of things that can distract you. Texts. Emails. Apps. Picture filters. Delivery menus. Online shopping.
Take a lesson from the animal kingdom, because they get sh** done.
Sure, they might walk around naked on all fours, but they’re some of the hardest working creatures around. Whether you’re here for cute animal pics, or you’re here because you literally forgot how to get anything done, either way you’re in for a treat.
Beavers
This little cutie has determination written all over him. Beavers weigh around 50 pounds, but they are mighty enough to make a 100-year-old tree hit the floor. So if you’re having trouble building something, just remember, you aren’t in rushing water trying to build a canal with your own baby-sized paws. You have thumbs. You can do anything, you human!
Lions
Lions are committed and coordinated, and they work well in teams. They love making plans, especially when it comes to hunting. If they can do it, why can’t you?!
Step one: Commit to something. Want to land a new client? Want your lettering featured on a design blog? Figure out what steps you need to take to make it happen.
Step two: Coordinate! Make a plan, follow the outline, and do the damn thing.
Step three: Consider a team. Having a hard time getting clients? Have some people work their connections or have them spread the word that you’re looking for work. Are you in over your head with projects? Hire a freelancer. Even if you’re a freelancer yourself, you can still hire another freelancer!
Step four: Plan. Make a workback schedule or outline a specific course of action you need to take; then, go in for the kill. You’re not unlike a lion: for both of you, these four steps will result in a delicious reward.
Ants
Ants are a classic example of a hardworking species. They work in unity to maintain order. These animals are extremely systematic and have great technique. So, how does this relate to you, a human?
Well, for starters, whether you’re working on a team or just directly with a client, if there ain’t no jiving, there ain’t no thriving. The better the machine is oiled, the better it runs.
Maintaining order is key when it comes to process.
Without having some sort of organization (even if it’s organized chaos), it can be difficult to get to where you want to be. Learn how to be efficient. Manage cash flows. Figure out a system that will work for you or your team. And don’t forget to do great work.
Hummingbirds
Hummingbirds live everyday like it’s their last. That’s because…it kind of is. These birds can only store enough energy to last them one day, so that’s why they’re constantly chowing down on flowers.
Not only are they great professional eaters, they are super fast. Of course, some things take time and attention to detail. But for the mindless tasks that could be done in a short amount of time, it’s important to just tackle them as quickly and efficiently as possible, so you have enough time and mental clarity to focus on the important things.
Whether you prefer carpe diem or yolo, the message is the same: don’t be afraid to take risks. Success doesn’t come from tiptoeing through your career. So get out there and work it, Missy.
Honeybees
We’ve all heard the phrases “busy bee” or “worker bee,” and while it might seem elementary, they didn’t get the name without reason. A honeybee works nine hours a day, six days a week – all for a small amount of honey. If you want to be (figuratively) swimming in that honey, you have to put in the time.
Starting up your own business means late nights, working on the weekend, and no vacations. It might not always be this way, but you’ve got to be willing to sacrifice your personal time in order to establish your business. Making contacts takes effort, creating great work takes time, and success doesn’t happen overnight.
Humans may be the smartest species, but we still have a lot to learn.
On that note, please enjoy this proverb: No bees, no honey; no work, no money.
Pogo is an online business insurance agency dedicated to helping entrepreneurs and the self-employed get the right insurance, easily.Learn more about different types of business insurance.