At an annual meeting of a subsidiary, I witnessed an ode to hard work. Those front-line workers who stick to their posts during holidays, abandon their families, and work in the wind and rain are praised as the cornerstone of the company's glory. However, I can't help but wonder, do these executives really think it's great? Perhaps, they want their employees to believe in this greatness, so as to maintain their empathy and loyalty.
This reminds me of a fable in which the master said to the hard-working donkey, without you, we would have to eat coarse grains. The donkey smiled innocently, and the pace of grinding was faster. And the master is teaching the child not to be that stupid donkey. The story reflects a harsh reality: on the great millstone of society, the industrious donkeys work hard while the owners enjoy the fruits.
Mizumura's point of view is even more pertinent: 99% of people play a supporting role in society, and their efforts are only to make the lives of 1% better. The wealth of the rich is built on the labor of the poor, and the truth of hard work and prosperity is often hidden in these rules.
Lei Jun's words were even more to the point: what he didn't believe in the most was that God rewarded hard work. Diligence is important, but in this fast-changing world, a shift in mindset is key. If ordinary people want to change the status quo, they must first break the old perception, which requires courage and boldness.
The reshaping of concepts means the reinterpretation of the underlying concepts. Li Xiaolai mentioned that the underlying concept is the biggest difference between people. Breaking the shackles of these concepts is the first step towards a new circle.
When I was in college, I worked part-time, got up early every day to deliver milk, and earned a small income. My classmates suggested that I try to start my own business, but I lacked the courage. Now, I realize that in order to be successful, I must learn to "come out and sell" – not to sell time, but to sell products, experience, and myself.
In the self-leading era, everyone can be a provider of value. The key is to find what makes you unique and who you serve. Not everyone will like you, but there will always be someone who needs your experience. Don't be one of those good teachers, but share your wisdom when the time is right.
When people reach middle age, they learn to be moderately silent at work and socially, unless someone asks for help. On the self-leading platform, you can find those who really need your knowledge, expand your influence, and filter out groups that can bring you value.
In short, in addition to hard work, the change of concept is the key to achieving class jump. Be brave enough to break the old shackles and see the world in new eyes, and you will find that the path to success is much broader than you imagined.