Virtues to Live By

It’s always been said that you need passion to become interested in whatever that you’re doing. Yes, that’s well and good, but some of us do not have the luxury of starting out that way. Sometimes we get involved in something that we do not have a passion for at first, and start at it for a myriad of reasons. But then, as you begin learning and understanding more about your work, how important your role is and desire to get better at it, it can slowly evolve into passion. Reviving Work Ethic author, Eric Chester, says he has seen many highly successful people who put a great amount of effort into their job, and their work eventually becomes their passion. He said they didn’t set out to be the world’s greatest carpet installer, data entry clerk or fry cook; they just set out to be the best they could be while at their jobs and the next thing they know, they are awesome at it. One of our cover stars, Barry Edmonds, came to notice that his passion towards his family business blossomed when he began to better understand his role in the company and realise the importance in what they do by serving people and industries. He says in our interview with him, “When you want to start to do something well, that is when things get exciting, because you’re challenging yourself.” He also adds that one of the factors that keeps him going is that people are relying on him to “help solve the puzzle,” as he puts it. Other values needed to succeed in life or work are professionalism, integrity, diligence and the persistence to follow through. The road to success is at times never easy, but if you persist even when the going gets tough, rewards will soon follow—at least that’s what I believe. This job, while it has its perks, is filled with stressful deadlines and challenges, and I wouldn’t have lasted if I didn’t have the above traits, as well as great, supportive colleagues, which I’m thankful for. And I am not alone in believing these traits are important, as our cover stars also share the same mind frame. Read their inspiring story, in which they talk about life goals, values and leaving a legacy, as well as Barry’s latest endeavour—a glamping retreat that you may wish to visit one day. Let me end with an inspiring quote by San Antonio Spurs basketballer, Tim Duncan: “Good, better, best. Never let it rest. Until your good is better and your better is best.” — Elizabeth Soong Managing Editor