Find out how a young woodcutter’s relentless effort was outmatched by an old man’s smart strategy.
Once upon a time, two woodcutters lived in a village: one was very young, and the other was quite old. One day, the king of the village asked the woodcutters to cut some logs for furniture construction. Wanting the work done quickly, he declared that the one who cut the most logs in the least amount of time would be rewarded. Both the young and old woodcutters set out to cut the logs.
The young man, energetic as he was, cut many logs within a few hours without taking a single break. In contrast, the old man worked at a steady pace, taking a break every 20 minutes, while the young man never rested.
The young woodcutter thought, “I am much younger than this old man and have worked continuously; I will definitely win the reward.” He was very pleased with this thought. However, at the end of the day, after all the work was done, the king’s secretary counted the logs each man had cut. Surprisingly, the old man won because he had cut the most logs.
Disappointed, the young man asked the old woodcutter, “I worked very hard, yet you cut more logs than I did. What is your tactic?” The old man replied, “Oh dear, every time I took a break, I sharpened my axe.
After each break, I felt more refreshed and could analyze the correct way to cut the logs. You began energetically, but your speed decreased as your axe dulled. Plus, your mind and body tired from continuous work, preventing you from finding the most efficient cutting method. That’s why I cut more logs than you.”
Many of us are familiar with the saying by Abraham Lincoln, “If I had eight hours to cut down a tree, I’d spend six sharpening my axe and the remaining two cutting the tree,” but we seldom apply it. Most of those attempting it do so only halfway. They study and research more, earn more degrees, but their personal productivity remains poor. Many of us today resemble the young woodcutter: hardworking and earnest yet ending up frustrated because we do not work smartly. It’s not the quantity of work but the quality that counts. In fact, to earn more, you need to work less and devote time to personal development.
Here are three strategies to work less and earn more:
Sharpen your axe from time to time: While many of us do this, not all excel at it. Many stop learning about their business or job once they start earning significantly. This attitude is not just wrong; it’s dangerous. Like diesel fueling an engine but burning slowly, if you deplete your knowledge, your ability will falter. Knowledge is essential as it propels you forward; without it, your “engine” may fail.
Take breaks to allow your body to relax and refresh: Our bodies, like engines, are strong but subject to wear and tear. No matter the strength or standard of an engine, overuse without maintenance will lead to reduced productivity and eventual breakdown. It’s the same with our bodies. By taking breaks, you’ll regain your energy and strength, avoiding the need for medical intervention. Many exhaust their health for wealth, only to spend their earnings on attempting to regain health, often unsuccessfully.
Work on your mind: This is crucial, yet often neglected by nearly 80% of people. Your productivity is determined by your mental state. Proverbs teaches us to guard our minds diligently, as our life’s outcomes stem from our thoughts. “As a man thinks in his heart, so he is,” the Scripture says, highlighting the immediate impact of our thoughts. Transformation begins with renewing your mind. Simply acquiring degrees without mental renewal won’t bring the change you seek. Invest time in clearing negative thoughts and reinforcing positive affirmations. By believing in your potential and maintaining a positive outlook, you will achieve your goals.
Thank you for reading💜💜
“You are rewarded for how well you work, not how much you work.” – Meet Zill