For those who don't know, Mike Rowe of the show Dirty Jobs has been a huge advocate of the notion that some people simply aren't suited to go to college.
Now... before you get all butt hurt, he means that some people do MUCH better in jobs that require physical exertion, manual competency, technical understanding of physical structures, etc. You know... 'dirty jobs'.
Mike Rowe recently received a letter from the Trump White House in regards to an initiative that will increase emphasis on young (and old) Americans to pursue trade skills that can't be learned without hands on experience... you know, the sort of hands-on experience you rarely receive in higher institutions of learning.
He recently published, what I consider, to be a brilliant declaration of the 'Ideal American Worth Ethic'.
Known as the S.W.E.A.T. (Skills & Work Ethic Aren't Taboo) Pledge, Mr. Rowe is following through on his oft repeated promise to bring back pride in American trade skills, physical labor, and technical knowledge of critical infrastructure like electricity, vehicle repair and plumbing.
While these jobs may sound icky to some, a good number of the people told by their counselors and parents (and seemingly every bit of media available), the only way to true success is with a 4 year college degree in something. Don't worry about the debt. Just pay the minimum for 25 years and they'll forgive you of it!
Yes, I have heard this. My wife even believes it.
Anyway, enough of my ranting -- here's the text!
“THE S.W.E.A.T. PLEDGE”
(Skill & Work Ethic Aren’t Taboo)
I believe that I have won the greatest lottery of all time. I am alive. I walk the Earth. I live in America. Above all things, I am grateful.
I believe that I am entitled to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Nothing more. I also understand that “happiness” and the “pursuit of happiness” are not the same thing.
I believe there is no such thing as a “bad job.” I believe that all jobs are opportunities, and it’s up to me to make the best of them.
I do not “follow my passion.” I bring it with me. I believe that any job can be done with passion and enthusiasm.
I deplore debt, and do all I can to avoid it. I would rather live in a tent and eat beans than borrow money to pay for a lifestyle I can’t afford.
I believe that my safety is my responsibility. I understand that being in “compliance” does not necessarily mean I’m out of danger.
I believe the best way to distinguish myself at work is to show up early, stay late, and cheerfully volunteer for every crappy task there is.
I believe the most annoying sounds in the world are whining and complaining. I will never make them. If I am unhappy in my work, I will either find a new job, or find a way to be happy.
I believe that my education is my responsibility, and absolutely critical to my success. I am resolved to learn as much as I can from whatever source is available to me. I will never stop learning, and understand that library cards are free.
I believe that I am a product of my choices – not my circumstances. I will never blame anyone for my shortcomings or the challenges I face. And I will never accept the credit for something I didn’t do.
I understand the world is not fair, and I’m OK with that. I do not resent the success of others.
I believe that all people are created equal. I also believe that all people make choices. Some choose to be lazy. Some choose to sleep in. I choose to work my butt off.
