What is effort?

When you make a mistake at work or fail to achieve the results you expected, you may be scolded by your boss or those around you to "try harder." At such times, many people likely ask themselves the following question in their hearts.

"Just how far do I have to go to be able to say I am 'trying hard enough'?"

The phrase "lack of effort" carries a weight that feels as if it is denying our very character. In this article, I would like to use the provided materials to organize the true nature of "effort" in modern society and consider ways of thinking that prevent us from pushing ourselves too hard.

1. How far do you have to go to call it "effort"?

If you look in a dictionary, to try hard (to make an effort) is defined as "to persist in one's own will" or "to persevere and strive to the end." However, the boundary of "effort" required in an actual workplace is extremely ambiguous.

In modern society, the belief known as the "Laziness Lie"—that high productivity is the very measure of human value—is deeply ingrained. Under this value system, no matter how much a person wears themselves out, if they do not produce the expected "results," it is often deemed that their "effort is insufficient."

However, according to the materials, whether or not one can make an effort is not merely a matter of willpower. It is only when one has the cognitive function of "foresight"—the ability to imagine several steps ahead—and a "foundation of security"—the feeling that one will not be abandoned even if they fail—that a person can make sustainable efforts. In other words, judging the presence or absence of effort solely by visible results can lead to ignoring the difficulties in that person's background.

2. Isn't health management also a form of effort?

I often hear the opinion that "getting sick is proof that you cannot manage yourself. Since it causes trouble for those around you, health management is also part of your effort." Certainly, fulfilling one's responsibilities as a working professional is important.

However, from a psychological perspective (Maslow's hierarchy of needs),it is difficult to make an effort (self-actualization) toward high goals when "physiological needs" and "safety needs" are not met.

Rather, continuing to work long hours due to "guilt about resting" significantly lowers work efficiency in the long term and ultimately increases the risk of burnout syndrome or serious illness. The materials argue thatacknowledging your own limits and taking appropriate rest is by no means "negligence," but a "wise choice" to protect yourself.

3. "Not wanting to do anything" is a defensive reaction of the body

When you just can't find the motivation or can't get anything done, we tend to blame ourselves for being "lazy." However, that "lethargy" may actually be an important defensive reactionthat signals your mind and body have reached their limit.

When the brain and body are about to run out of energy, they apply the "brakes" to avoid further damage. The feeling of not wanting to do anything is a desperate warning message (sign) from your body saying, "Now is the time to stop and take care of yourself."

Ignoring this sign and continuing to run while calling it "lack of effort" can be an act that deeply harms yourself.

Summary: Doing your best

One answer to the question of "what is effort?" might be "to value the process within the limits of the moment while listening to the voice of your own mind and body."

We are not robots. It is impossible to continue increasing productivity indefinitely at the same pace every day.

Truly "doing your best" does not just mean working recklessly for long hours.It means correctly identifying your own limits, having the courage to rest when necessary, and continuing your activities while cherishing yourself. I believe that is the sustainable and healthy form of "effort" that we should aim for.

If you are currently suffering from the words "lack of effort," please first try asking yourself, "Haven't I already tried hard enough?"