Recent Comings and Goings

A few weeks ago I had a thought hit me pretty hard. It was a realization that I have rarely ever worked as hard as I could in my life. I have frequently been compelled to work just hard enough to get results that were “acceptable.” Well, when I had this realization, I decided that it needed to change.

The results have been pretty good so far. I had failed my first two attempts at passing the Cisco BSCI exam. After my realization, I hunkered down and studied hard for the few days before my third attempt and I passed. I then began studying fresh for my next exam, the BCMSN. Yesterday, after 2.5 weeks of studying, I passed on my first try by over 100 points. Now those are the kind of results I am looking for.

The thing is, I am pleased with myself and the results. But I know that I could have worked harder. I don’t think I will be completely satisfied until I see what happens when I truly put 100% into something.

But even if I don’t get to that point, just striving to work harder is going to bring better results. Additionally, a lot of working harder doesn’t even involve dedicating more time to what you are working for. Sure, that is part of it. But I think a bigger part of it is to work smarter, to work more efficiently.

That may be one reason I haven’t been blogging as much lately. Blogging is something that “just takes a few minutes” but isn’t that fun compared to other activities. So I will tend to do a few things that “just take a few minutes,” and in the end you’ll end up wasting an hour.

Now, when you are satisfied with the work you have done for the day, you can relax and do the things that you really enjoy doing. In my case, read, play a video game, walk around the city, hang out with Alyssa (Hi, sweetie!), cook, et cetera.

Anyway, only two more tests to go, and hopefully my new realization will help me pass them quickly.

• By Hallmark and mom:

  You view every day as a learning adventure with brand-new ideas to
  explore, You know that the worthwhile achievements you make will
  eventually lead you to more. You live your own life in the manner
  you’ve chosen, refusing to settle for less…
  So shape your own destiny, build your own world–
  You’re certain to be a success.

  Love your mom, em

• Hi, Mom. That was very nice and I appreciate the kind words. Hope you’re doing well.