To WORK is an "activity involving mental or physical effort done in order to achieve a purpose or result."*

To remember WORK, think of these words:

-Effort

-Exertion

-Labor

-Toil

-Strive

-Endeavor

Effort is the conscious exertion of power or the application of energy to achieve a purpose. It implies a deliberate and often challenging mental or physical application towards a task. Effort is the raw material of productivity, the willingness to put in the necessary energy to get something done, even when it's difficult.*

Exertion is the application of physical or mental effort. This term often suggests a more intense or strenuous application of energy, pushing one's limits to complete a task or achieve a goal. Exertion can be seen in demanding physical activities or complex problem-solving that requires significant mental focus.*

Labor is productive activity, especially for the sake of economic gain or, more broadly, hard physical work. Labor often implies a sustained and disciplined effort, contributing to the creation of something tangible or the provision of a service. It can be a solitary act or a collaborative endeavor within a larger system.*

Toil is to work extremely hard or incessantly. Toil conveys a sense of arduous and often continuous effort, highlighting the dedication required for challenging tasks. It often suggests a laborious and persistent engagement with a task, sometimes under difficult or unrewarding conditions.*

Strive is to make great efforts to achieve or obtain something. Striving emphasizes a proactive and determined pursuit of a goal, often against resistance or competition. It suggests an earnest and diligent application of oneself towards a particular aim, embodying ambition and the pursuit of excellence.*

Endeavor is to try hard to do or achieve something. An endeavor is an attempt to achieve a goal, often implying a serious and determined effort, particularly in the face of difficulties. It speaks to the act of embarking on a challenging task with the intention of seeing it through to success.*

We believe that WORK is fundamental in DOing Excellent. WORK is necessary to develop the rest of the 10 fundamental actions of DOing Excellent by helping us apply ourselves, strive, and achieve.

*Definitions generated by Gemini on May 26, 2025