When I think about hard work, the first thing that comes to mind is my dad. Growing up I have seen him handle his responsibilities even when he was tired, stressed or wanted to do something else. He has taught that hard work isn't about motivation. It is about finishing what you've started and discipline. One moment that really stands out to me is watching him remodel my house adding two new rooms. It was not something that happened overnight. I saw how much time and effort went into each step. Seeing him stick with such a hard project showed me what hard work looks like. My dad never had to sit me down and give me a speech about hard work. I learned more from watching him work than I would've from any speech. Seeing my dad come home exhausted from ten hour shifts but still finding the energy to do his responsibilities showed me how strong his work ethic was. His work ethic taught me that no one else is responsible for for accomplishing my goals, and that real progress comes from taking initiative. His mentality of "finish what you start and "give it your best effort" has influenced the way I approach challenges. Over time, I began to realize that if I wanted to accomplish anything it was going to take sacrifice and hard work. This mindset has influenced the way I approach the gym and school. In school, I've began to understand that if I want to do well, I cannot rely on someone else to hold me accountable. I must study, complete my work, and advocate for myself when I do not understand something. Watching my dad has taught me that I can't expect other people to solve problems for me. I have to be willing to seek help and ask questions. I have developed a similar mindset inside of the gym. I know that progress doesn't happen immediately. Somedays I feel more motivated then others, but through my dad I have learnt that discipline and consistency matter more than motivation. In both areas, watching my dad has taught me that reaching a goal takes time, hard work, and a commitment to keep working even though the results aren't immediate. Over time, I have realized that progress doesn't happen immediately. In school, I may not understand a topic the first time learning it, and in the gym, I may not see the results of the amount of work I am putting in. My dad's example has shown me that this is not an excuse to quit. Instead, I must be patient and keep working towards my goals although the results aren't immediate. I have learnt that if I want to improve I must take responsibility for making that happen. Whether that is asking questions in school, studying more, or staying consistent with my goals outside of school. My dad's example has taught me that I must be willing to push my self. My dad has influenced me by showing me how I should approach my future. My dad's work ethic has taught me the importance of consistency, and responsibility. As I continue with my education and eventually start my career, I want to carry those lessons with me and approach challenges with the same mindset seen from him.