"You better work"

Let’s break this down. The essence of the statement "You better work" is all about taking action. It’s a no-nonsense prompt to get up and do what needs to be done. It's simple, yet profound. It screams dedication, effort, and persistence. You can’t just sit back and expect things to fall into place—you have to work for them.

Now, think back to the early '90s when RuPaul, the drag queen superstar, made this phrase iconic with the hit song "Supermodel (You Better Work)." In a time when the world of drag was still largely underground, RuPaul's message wasn't just for aspiring models but for anyone striving to make a mark. He wasn't just talking about looking good on the runway; it was about putting in the effort, no matter what your goal. It’s a mantra that resonates with anyone facing a challenge.

Imagine an athlete training for the Olympics. Sure, they might have talent, but talent alone doesn’t win gold medals. Picture them waking up at the crack of dawn, pushing their bodies to the limit, every single day. They put in the work—relentlessly. They don't just rely on their natural abilities; they fine-tune their skills, their stamina, and their mental grit. The sweat, the discipline, the sore muscles—all part of the journey. That’s the "work" RuPaul is talking about.

So, how can you apply this wisdom in your own life? First, set your sights on what you want to achieve. Be it a new job, running a marathon, or learning a new language. Break it down into actionable steps and commit to them. Create a routine. Show up every day, even when you don’t feel like it. Remember, consistency is key. It’s not about doing it perfectly every time, but about doing it consistently.

Let’s bring it closer to home. Think about your friend Jamie. Jamie has always wanted to write a novel but kept procrastinating. One day, Jamie decided to take the advice—"You better work." Instead of dreaming about writing, Jamie set a daily word count goal. Even amidst a busy schedule, Jamie carved out time each evening to write. Some days the words flowed easily, other days it was a struggle. But Jamie showed up, day after day. Months later, Jamie had a finished manuscript. It wasn’t just talent that got Jamie there—it was the daily grind, the unwavering effort.

In simpler terms, don’t just wish for it—work for it. Put in the effort, day in and day out. Whether you’re trying to get fit, ace your exams, or master a new skill, the principle remains the same. Show up, do the work, and keep going, even when it’s tough. The results will follow. It’s about persistence and patience. No shortcuts, just hard work.

So next time you find yourself dreaming of that big goal, remember those three words: "You better work." Get started, keep at it, and watch how you transform. Imagine sitting at our coffee shop, sharing your success story a few months from now. You’ll be able to say, “I did it because I worked for it.” And that’s a story worth telling.