Nobody can be considered ‘great’ without working hard. Hard work is the starting point if you want to achieve greatness.

Nothing spectacular comes without it. Getting organised is hard work. Setting goals, making plans to achieve them, and staying on track is hard work. Learning to embrace hard work instead of being ignorant and lazy gives one the ability to execute big goals, regardless of what it takes.

Hard work is universal and that’s the best thing about it. It does not matter what industry you’re in. Also, hard work will not betray you. It is loyal to everyone and all you need is strength.

The importance of hard work is a timeless truth. Rather than fight it, run with it and you will never be disappointed. Your life will reach a whole new level if you stop avoiding it, and instead, surrender to it.  Hard work will make the biggest difference in your life.

Greatness isn’t reserved for a predetermined few. In the words of Henry Ford, "The harder you work, the luckier you get”, and, the more successful you become.

So, work hard and you can achieve anything. This is advice that’s been passed on so many times, the problem is that many feel they are working hard and getting nowhere. However, hard work has no limits, so do so and achieve greatness.

Ishimwe is an aspiring writer in S4 at Lycée de Kigali

The "Aspiring Journalists” initiative is a partnership between UNICEF and The New Times, encouraging young writers to develop and demonstrate their skills while spotlighting topics which are important to young people across Rwanda.