Applying The Values And Ethos Of Craftsmanship To Our Everyday Life. A Lengthy But Good Read

[Chit]

Just came across a very insightful article online, and thought of sharing:

http://www.artofmanl...everyday-lives/

Happy reading!

Chit

[EquusCustomLeathers]

"Modern culture has indoctrinated us that it’s more important to feel good about our work than to actually do good work. Self-help and career books tell us that we should find work that feels “authentic.” School children are taught that the only thing that counts is their effort, not if their work is actually good or correct. Crawford calls this emphasis on feelings as opposed to results a consumer ethic as opposed to a craftsmanship ethic.

The problem with the consumer ethic is that it creates individuals with self-inflated and fragile egos who are unable to withstand the sometimes harsh criticisms and judgments that invariably come in life and in work. Clients and bosses don’t care if you felt “authentic” when writing a memo or if you tried really hard on a project. All they care about are the results. In life, it often takes mistakes in order to get better. You can’t get better if no one ever points out your failings.

If you wish to become the best man you can be, you must rid yourself of the consumer ethic of feelings and replace it with the craftsmanship ethic of results. Does your creation work? Does it look good? Does it add something to the world? If not, seek feedback and use that criticism to improve your work."

This is something that I try to teach some of the kids that do volunteer work for me here. Interesting article, thanks for sharing!

Edited July 5, 2013 by EquusCustomLeathers

[Bob Blea]

Thank you for sharing this Chit!

Bob

[verus22]

What a great article!!! My philosophy exactly!!!