#DoTheWork is a philosophy designed to empower people to improve themselves and commit to excellence. The banner above was displayed in a newsroom I managed in Little Rock, Arkansas as a reminder excellence doesn’t come easy. You have to work at it daily.

Here are 10 #DoTheWork principles designed to help you reach your goals in journalism, business, and beyond:

Don’t Take Shortcuts
We’ve all done it. No one’s looking, so you choose the easy path. Don’t be lazy.

Go The Extra Mile
At some point, the people around you will clock out. Outwork your competition. Be the hardest worker in the room.

Try New Things
Take controlled risks to improve yourself each day. You won’t get better if you don’t try new things.

Lend a Hand
Someone needs help? Don’t look the other way. Be the person other people can lean on.

Choose Optimism
Attack each day with a positive outlook and treat others the way you want to be treated.

Own Digital and Social Media
Digital is where the growth is. What are you doing each day to capitalize on that? It’s not an afterthought; it’s a priority.

#NoExcuseZone
Point the finger at yourself before you point it at anyone else. What could you have done to prevent the problem?

Be Consistent
Give your best each day. Be the person your peers count on. When you’re in the office, you’re always locked in. No days off.

Build Your Brand
What do you stand for? What sets you apart from everyone else in your position? How are you communicating your brand to everyone else?

Chase Greatness
Be hungry. What are you doing each day to improve yourself and your work? You’ll never be the greatest if you don’t try.

If you can approach your work with these principles, you’ll improve your outlook, your effort, your station and your future.