What Does it Mean to Work Hard Today?

I was raised with a strong work ethic, and understand that in many cases the door of opportunity is still marked "push."  And, yet, times have offered different venues for working hard and thus working smarter.  Leaders must not underestimate the value of continually evaluating not just why we do certain things but how we go about it.  Working hard today means more about how well we are using appropriate tools.  Systems, networking, teams, creative meetings, training sessions - the list can grow from there - create work on its own and our involvement in these different settings as leaders demand our labor.  So, I walk away with at least two reflections:  (1) To be an effective leader means embracing current tools.  (2) Being effective still means working hard.  So, nothing we do can replace the treasure of smart leaders who embody hard work!

What steps do you need to take today to "step it up" in your work as a leader?