Work is The Ladder To Success
This poem was written in 1910 by an Unknown Poet, yet its message still applies today. There is much wisdom in these lines. The next time someone feels discouraged in their work or wonders why effort matters, this poem offers a thoughtful reminder.
Updated March 24, 2026, by Catherine Pulsifer.
This short poem shares a simple but strong truth about life. Work is not only about earning money or filling our days. It helps build character, gives us purpose, and reminds us that effort often leads to growth. While some of the wording reflects the time in which the poem was written, its message still speaks clearly today.
The poem shows that work can shape our attitude as much as our future. When we approach our responsibilities with a willing heart, work becomes more than a duty. It can bring self respect, satisfaction, and even joy. These lines encourage us to see work not as a burden, but as an opportunity to move forward, help others, and make good use of the gifts we have been given.
Work is The Ladder Upon Which Men Climb to Success
Work is what you make it - a drudgery, or a joy,
Work is the bread upon the waters,
Work is the genius of application.
Work is the cure of laziness, riches and indigestion and poverty.
Work is the philosophy of life.
Work is what the loafer shuns, and see his reward.
Work is prosperity.
Work gives you back self-respect.
Work keeps the wolf from the door, also the rent agent.
Work keeps some people out of the poor house, others out of jail.
Work is a substitute of genius.
Work dispels sorrow.
Work shortens the day and lengthens the pay.
Work is the great leveler of mankind.
Work is good enough for anyone.
Work makes play all the more enjoyable.
Work makes life worth living.
Work is economy of time.
Work is forgetting the clock.
Work is concentrating the mind on something you are doing.
Work is the hardest thing in the world to avoid, and the easiest to take up, when you get the habit.
Work is the ladder upon which men climb to success.
Work is always at hand.
Work and you will find it.
Key Messages in this poem:
- Work can be a source of joy when we choose a positive attitude.
- Steady effort helps build self respect, purpose, and success.
- Good work habits can bring both personal growth and practical rewards.
- Work helps keep our minds focused and our lives moving in a good direction.
- When we learn to value work, it becomes easier to do and more meaningful.
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Conclusion
This poem may be short, but its message is powerful. Work helps us grow stronger, think more clearly, and appreciate what we have earned. It reminds us that success is often reached one step at a time, through steady effort and a good attitude.
Whether your work is at home, at school, in a job, or in helping others, there is value in what you do. May this poem encourage you to keep going, do your best, and remember that faithful effort often leads to good things.
More Poems About Work to Motivate and Inspire
"Success is often reached, not in one great leap, but by faithfully doing the work set before us each day."