At its core, the world is defined by work. The world functions because all beings—living and non-living—operate according to their innate nature (fitrah). That nature is work. Work entails actual physical movement. For us humans, we assign a specific quality label to our work: "hard work." This is not merely a choice, but a necessity. Individuals and societies that survive must engage in hard work, not just "work" in the ordinary sense.
Hard
work can be recognized by its characteristics. It involves working with both
body and mind, and sacrificing material and non-material resources to the
absolute limit. A hard worker possesses strong intent, works intelligently with
full concentration, and sets aside personal pleasures. Physically, it means
working to the limit of one's capacity; regarding time, it means working to the
limit of availability; and regarding method, it means applying principles of
maximum efficiency. The heart of a hard worker burns with enthusiasm; they
desire and yearn for results that yield broad benefits. They enjoy socializing
and working collaboratively, leveraging acquaintances, networks, friends,
family, and so on. The results they achieve are not for mere pleasure, but to
foster greater productivity.
Simply
put, the profile of a "hard worker" is reflected in the
language of job advertisements: "inviting candidates who possess mental
resilience, a fighting spirit, and high dedication, and who prioritize quality,
efficiency, and effectiveness in their work." Other ads might specify
those "who are willing to grow within our company and explore the world at
the same time," or seek "skilled and experienced professionals with
strong integrity and high motivation to excel."
Hard
work means working without regard for the clock. In a Hadith narrated by Imam
Ahmad, the Prophet reminds us: “If the Day of Judgment were to arrive while one
of you holds a date palm sapling in their hand, let them plant it immediately.”
This
chapter explores various meanings of hard work. These interpretations are drawn
from diverse sources and are not limited solely to religious definitions.
Because
“working” and “working hard” are different things
Simply
put, "work" is defined as "physical or mental effort or activity
directed toward the production or accomplishment of something." In
physics, work is the "transfer of energy by a force acting to displace a
body"—essentially, effort multiplied by distance. According to a
thesaurus, the adjective "hardworking" is closely associated with
terms such as diligent, persevering, industrious, and tireless. The original
meaning of the word "industry" is nothing other than
"diligence."
Words
closely related to hard work include being diligent, steadfast, tenacious,
meticulous, patient, and earnest—avoiding any haphazard or careless approach.
Working with patience and tenacity means not easily losing heart or giving up.
Tenacious individuals always apply themselves earnestly to their tasks. The
author of the bestseller The Magic of Thinking Big believed that no difficulty
could withstand perseverance and tenacity. Work is only considered complete
when it "reaches the finish line."
Hard
work is work that requires great effort and exertion. Imam Syafi'i's advice:
"Go, you will surely be compensated for everything you leave behind.
Work hard, because the pleasure of life is only found in hard work. When water
flows it will become clear, and when it stops it will become murky. If a lion
does not come out of its den it will not find its prey, just as an arrow that
does not leave its bow will not hit its target. Gold seeds that have not been
processed are the same as the dust in their place. When people leave and start
working, they will be as noble as the value of gold."
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