What Does It Mean To "Work Harder?"

Almost every time I ask a student, "What are you going to do to improve your results?" I hear a version of, "I will work harder." as the response. This response is normal because the idea of working harder to achieve is ingrained in our culture. It should also be said that such an attitude is not a bad thing. Certainly, the value of working through challenges and having the grit to see meaningful results is an important lesson. However, simply accepting "work harder" as the answer leaves much to the imagination, especially for teachers and parents who are in position to support the student.

Specifics are required. As such, you can try this process to figure out what "work harder" means.

• Recall the formula for work: Work = Effort x Time.
• Reflect on your process by answering these questions. 
• How much time did you spend?
• Was it enough?
• Did you feel rushed?
• Did you sacrifice quality for completion?
• How was your effort? Did you concentrate? How was your focus?
• Did you use your work time/rest time cycle?
• Based on your answers, what adjustment to your process might yield the most benefits? Is your primary roadblock based on effort or time?

Once you are able to answer these questions, you can then refine your plan from "work harder" to a more specific and logical course of action - one that can be supported by others and can be tracked for effectiveness.