Recently, my 16-year-old son started working at McDonald's. I've often received surprised responses like, "He's working at McDonald's?" as if such a job is beneath him. This reaction has made me reflect on the importance of work ethic and how it intersects with emotional intelligence.
I grew up working. My first job was shredding paper at my family’s business. In high school, I worked in food service, and during college, I worked at the "Juice Stop," making smoothies. This job led to a summer position as a store manager and eventually to an office job with the company that handled our books. They appreciated my work ethic and offered me a role in marketing. This progression taught me invaluable lessons about dedication, humility, and finding joy in my work.
My youngest son, Jack, has always been a hustler. He's constantly looking for ways to make a buck. When he was little, he would set up "Jack's Snacks" at the end of our driveway and sell cookies, juice, and random food items from our pantry. Now 15, Jack is still driven to work. He had a job lined up at Panda Express that paid $18 an hour, but when they found out he was only 15, they couldn't hire him. Just this week, he and a friend were going door to door to see if they could wash our neighbors' trash cans. And then there’s his sneaker business—buying, trading, and selling sneakers. Somehow, he's managed to turn a nice profit and build a significant sneaker collection.
My husband, Scott, also embodies this work ethic. From working at Red Lobster (where he was the server of the month) to roles with the alumni association and telemarketing during college, he was always working. His dedication and commitment to his work have always been an inspiration.
Here are a few pointers on fostering work ethic and emotional intelligence, especially when raising kids:
Value Every Job: No job is too small or insignificant. Every role provides valuable experience and builds character. Encourage your kids to take pride in their work, no matter where they start.
Embrace Humility: We must work up to our goals—we aren’t entitled to anything. Teach your children that starting from the bottom and working their way up is a part of the journey to success.
Find Joy in Work: Help them discover the joy in their work, regardless of the task. When we approach our jobs with a positive attitude, we open doors to new opportunities and growth.
Build Resilience: Working in various roles teaches resilience. It’s about showing up, doing the job well, and learning from every experience. This resilience is a crucial component of emotional intelligence.
Cultivate a Strong Work Ethic: A strong work ethic is a cornerstone of success. It demonstrates reliability, dedication, and a willingness to go the extra mile. Encourage your kids to take their responsibilities seriously and strive for excellence.
By nurturing these qualities in our children, we equip them with the tools they need to succeed in any career. Let's remind them that no matter where they start, their work ethic and emotional intelligence will guide them towards their goals.
Thank you for being part of our journey to foster a world where everyone can 'be who they came to be'.
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