Definition of Hard Work

The word work comes from Latin, specifically from the term tripalium, which was an instrument of torture. The etymological origin of the term allows us to remember that historically work has been considered as a "punishment" and as something associated with suffering. Based on this consideration, it is not strange that there is the concept of hard work, that is, an unpleasant, heavy and uncomfortable work activity in some sense.

Different modalities of hard work

The idea of ​​hard work can be understood from various perspectives. First, slavery is, by definition, the least rewarding and therefore the hardest way of working. The slave's work only allowed him his basic maintenance and his working conditions have been singularly harsh in some cases (especially in times when slaves).

Any exploitative work can be considered hard. In this sense, a shift of more than eight hours a day and without any small break is the paradigm excessive working hours. It should not be forgotten that the celebration of May 1 commemorates the achievement of the eight hours of work a day.

The concept of hard work is not simply a matter of hours of work activity but also of working conditions. Thus, unworthy conditions represent another way of understanding what hard work means.

Regardless of the number of hours, the working conditions and the dignity, there are professional activities that are difficult due to their own characteristics: underground mining, deep sea fishing, some agricultural activities, work carried out in the desert, etc.

Hardness depends on many factors: stress, physical exertion, level of responsibility, the schedule, the environment labor, etc. It is worth remembering that the same job can be very comfortable and rewarding or extremely hard (for example, there are teachers who work in optimal conditions and others who have to face stressful situations permanent).

The role of technology

In general, technological advances have made work more bearable and comfortable. The force Physics has been superseded by machines in most work environments. This technical progress has been very beneficial from a global point of view. Let us think of the field work, which in the past was carried out with the participation direct from man and now machinery agricultural has significantly reduced physical wear and tear. Although technology is a great ally in work processes, this does not mean that the concept of hard work has disappeared. In fact, the processes of mechanization have caused another type of hardness, which has to face those who cannot find work.

Photos: iStock - Pamela Moore / mihailomilovanovic