This year, don't resolve to "work smarter, not harder." This isn't just a worn-out cliche; it's terrible advice. Work is always hard when done well, and there's no way to outsmart the demands of creating something of value. When you're in the weeds of giving shape and substance to an idea, it's boring and exhausting ... until it isn't. We can resolve to set better priorities. We can pledge to avoid distractions. We can get clarity from our bosses and clients about what matters to them. These will help … but they won't  make our work any easier. There's no substitute for throwing your heart and soul into a project. …see more