Ergon

ἔργον

EHR-gon

Intermediate

The characteristic function, task, or work that defines what something is meant to do. In Aristotle's philosophy, every being has an ergon—and human flourishing depends on performing our distinctive function (rational activity) with excellence.

Modern Application

Your ergon as a leader is not merely to occupy a position but to fulfill your essential function with excellence. Identify the work that only you can do—the unique contribution your role demands—and pursue it with everything you have. When you align your daily actions with your true function, you transform mere activity into meaningful achievement.

Articles Exploring Ergon (5)

Mastery Forge

Good Intentions Are Why Most Dreams Die

Everyone celebrates good intentions. 'At least their heart was in the right place.' But intentions aren't neutral. They're a sophisticated form of self-deception that lets you feel virtuous about dreams you're not actually building.

Good Intentions Are Why Most Dreams Die
Mastery Excellence

You're Working Hard. On the Wrong Things.

The myth of 'work on your weaknesses' has created generations of well-rounded mediocrity. What if the thing that comes easily to you is exactly where your leverage lives?

You're Working Hard. On the Wrong Things.
Leadership Excellence

If Money Is Why They Stay, Money Is Why They'll Leave.

Pay them well and they'll stay. Pay them more and they'll work harder. It sounds logical until you watch your highest-paid people leave for less money. The myth of compensation-driven loyalty is destroying teams.

If Money Is Why They Stay, Money Is Why They'll Leave.

Practice Ergon Together

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