The Value of Sacrifice

When you talk about self investment; people assume that you’re talking from a background of privilege. An assumption that could not be further from the truth.
Self-investment especially in the area of work takes sacrifice. It’s a deliberate choice to forego something for the other to make your life and performance better.
A couple of months ago; a colleague was moving on from our shared workplace. I remember asking her if she really was not interested in investing in herself and buying a tangible reminder of her effort at this particular workplace. She had been complaining about the lack of a personal laptop and a low-grade mobile phone that couldn’t perform work functions like sending emails, taking notes and good photos. And,  the general lack of disposable equipment for each individual’s use.
Many hold the sentiment that your workplace is supposed to provide the environment, and equipment for you to perform to the best of your ability in that role. But, what if your workplace cannot provide yet needs your skills? Does that mean you are incapable of performing to the best of your abilities? Should the lack of equipment limit you from putting in your best effort with personal resources?
So many people depend on the provisions of the workplace and fail to see the need for self-investment.  Many have moved from workplace-to-workplace without so much as a personal laptop which in today’s world is an equipment we cannot leave without.
After my second stint of employment; I recall telling a workmate that I was employed because I came with a mobile office. I already had my personal laptop, tablet and smartphone therefore lessening the demands and cost of my position to the organisation. I used personal equipment for two years until the organisation amassed enough funds to provide me with a work laptop and this was due to an ethical dilemma.
One can only cite “I do not have the necessary equipment to perform this task” as an excuse before it stops to wash. Recruiters are looking for problem-solvers, out of the box-thinkers and generally self-motivated individuals willing to go the distance in the performance of their duties despite the low resources. Recruiters are also aware of their shortcomings but it does not stop them from taking on skilled individuals. If anything; they are also looking at how you solve that particular problem without incurring more costs for them.
As individuals; we should look further than waiting for the workplace to provide and invest in ourselves because every tangible output from our on sweat is ours to hold and proof of sacrifices made not necessarily privilege.

Image credits: googledotcom