There's a fundamental formula in Physics that precisely defines the concept of work:
W = Fs:
Work (W) equals force (F) multiplied by displacement or distance (s)
In order for something to produce work, it must have a force moving it, and it must move some sort of distance.
Let's delve deeper into this principle by exploring various scenarios.
Imagine applying 0.5 pounds of pressure (Force) to a rubber ball, causing it to roll 3 feet (distance). In this case, the Work would be calculated as 3 x .5 Joules, resulting in 1.5 J (typically, work is quantified in Joules). Now, consider a scenario where the ball is made of cement,
and despite exerting 10 pounds of pressure on it, you can't budge it. So you add another 10 pounds of pressure, but still no luck. How much work is being done?
Turns out, no work is accomplished since the calculation would yield 0J:
W = 20 x 0
W = 0
What about a ball made of paper that only requires 0.5 pounds of pressure to travel a distance of 15 feet? Well, that's more work than the rubber ball, but still not enormous. Although covering a significant distance, the force applied is minimal:
W = 0.5 x 15
W = 7.5J
While the distance covered was substantial, the accomplishment was effortless due to the minimal force exerted. Similarly, breathing, an essential activity we perform constantly (so, TONS of distance), does not constitute work. Why? Because the amount we breathe is very significant, but it takes very little Force.
Work isn't just how much you do, or how forcefully you do it. Work transcends mere action, representing a nuanced interplay between effort and achievement. So how does this apply to you?
Work transcends mere action, representing a nuanced interplay between effort and achievement.
Maybe you're a writer initiating multiple projects, but failing to complete any. Despite investing time and energy, true work only materializes upon tangible progress - such as finishing the book. Just like our cement ball example above, no amount of effort will result in work if there's no change in accomplishment. Spending all your time writing (Force) but never accomplishing (distance)....
You aren't doing any work.
If you're learning a new skill but you never move past the introductory level, you aren't working at it. I don't care how many videos you watch on YouTube or blogs posts you read, until you challenge yourself, grow, and produce something with it, you aren't working.
So my challenge to you today is this: put in the work. Whether you're learning to code, you're taking a course, writing a book, learning a musical instrument, painting a picture, or whatever else you may do, put in the work. Make progress. Grow. Learn, apply, and move on to the next step. Write, finish, and get published.
W = Fs
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