The Paradox of Effort and Outcome

The statement:

'In the end, the result, not the effort, will be appreciated.'

The Paradox Examined: The above statement suggests that only the outcome matters, not the hard work or effort put into achieving it. However, is this notion accurate? In the pursuit of success, we often ponder the relationship between effort and outcome. Do we value the hard work and dedication that lead to achievement, or do we focus solely on the end result? This age-old question has sparked a fascinating paradox, warranting closer examination. Let's explore this idea further.

Achievement Embodies Effort: We are indeed interested in achievements – a doctor, nurse, lawyer, judge, engineer, or architect who has achieved distinction, first class, or second class. Achievers know what they have gone through. In our daily lives, we encounter various achievers who have put in the effort to excel in their fields. When we meet our teachers, they share their knowledge, which is a direct result of their hard work. Similarly, when we visit doctors, their expertise is a testament to their dedication and effort.

Effort and Achievement: A Reciprocal Relationship To understand the reciprocal nature of effort and achievement, consider a simple yet profound example: A traveller rushing to catch a train urges a rickshaw puller to hurry. The rickshaw puller puts in extra effort and reaches the station just on time. The traveller, relieved and grateful, hands over a generous tip, saying, "Keep the change." In this moment, the traveller is not just appreciating the outcome (reaching the station on time) but also the effort the rickshaw puller put in to make it happen.

A Biblical Perspective: This paradox highlights the interconnectedness of effort and outcome. Without hard work and dedication, achieving success is unimaginable. As the biblical verse reminds us:

"By the sweat of your brow you will eat your food until you return to the ground, since from it you were taken; for dust you are and to dust you will return." (Genesis 3:19, NIV) Indeed, this clearly indicates that the outcome is the result of God’s appreciation to our effort. Similarly, Jesus advises for the spiritual effort in Matthew 6:33, "Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." This verse underscores the importance of consistent effort in seeking righteousness, ultimately leading to the fulfilment of our worldly needs, inner peace, and eternal salvation.

The Dangers of Insincere Praise: Consider the assistant who praises their superior merely to gain favor and attention, driven by selfish motives. In this scenario, the end result is being appreciated for personal gain, rather than genuine recognition. If the boss responds with gratitude, it may be a sign of something more sinister. As scripture reminds us:

A hymn of praise is not fitting on the lips of a sinner, for it has not been sent from the Lord. For a hymn of praise should be uttered in wisdom, and the Lord will prosper it. (Sirach 15:9-20, RSV)

Lack of Appreciation: A Big Concern The subordinate's work adhered to the standard operating procedure and work ethic, yet they faced oppression and harassment, aimed at demoralizing them. This lack of appreciation or misbehaviour towards high-performing individuals can often override self-motivation. Many have suffered consequences for their good deeds and excellence, but ultimately, the truth prevails. As the omnipresent God's eye sees everything, we can take comfort in His words: Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." (Matthew 5:10, NIV)

Therefore, to those who spoil others' lives and are irritated with others' performance, please, if you can't appreciate, do not misuse your power to spoil the gem. As the scripture reminds us: The lips of the wise spread knowledge, but the hearts of fools are not upright. The Lord detests the sacrifice of the wicked, but the prayer of the upright pleases him. The Lord detests the way of the wicked, but he loves those who pursue righteousness. Stern discipline awaits anyone who leaves the path; the one who hates correction will die. (Proverbs 15:7-10, NIV)

Conclusion: In conclusion, let us recognize the value of effort and hard work in achieving success. By acknowledging the importance of both effort and outcome, we can cultivate a deeper appreciation for the process of achieving our goals.

A Revised Perspective: Remember, the outcome is the measure of the effort or hard work. As a father once said to his son, "Had you put more effort, you would have achieved excellence." However, I propose a revised perspective: “Speaking about the outcome determines the amount and quality of the effort” This reframed statement highlights the intricate relationship between effort and outcome, emphasizing that the outcome is, in fact, a reflection of the effort put in. This summarizes that if we do not appreciate effort, we do not appreciate achievement. Indeed, appreciating effort sets an example and values effort to achieve goals.