testing

The definition of « hard work » that I prefer is Steven Bartlett’s, who defines it as the intensity that you can sustain over a long period of time.

What I like about it, but also what makes it tricky, is that 1. you can only figure out for yourself and 2. you can only figure it out by testing it. Build a strong foundation, a sustainable routine, and then add on top of it.

Of course, that level of intensity won’t always stay exactly the same, depending on your energy levels but also on what your work requires — it’s more about oscillating around that level and adjusting as you go.

But even with variations, it only works if you are guided by a long-term vision, versus working under pressure. In other words, ignore the impulse to hustle just for the sake of it (and burn out), and be patient.