Philosophy Discussion Forums

It's important to consider the context and meaning behind phrases like "work hard." Success often requires more than just effort; clarity in goals and strategy is crucial too.

When considering the notions of "trying" and "working hard," it's evident that genuine effort involves a conscious commitment to one's choices. The idea of acknowledging personal responsibility aligns with the essence of trying and working hard, emphasizing that success often comes from a clear understanding and acceptance of the choices we make. This perspective encourages a more intentional and mindful approach to personal growth and fulfillment.

The idea you shared is intriguing and logical. Your examples helped me understand why the phrase "work hard". There is a big difference between working hard and trying.

Here are some more thoughts on the topic of failure being an illusion:


The honest person who fully and unconditionally accepts that which they cannot control realizes there is no sensible difference between want and choice, there is no difference between goal and obstacle, and there is no trying, no failure, and no shoulds and no oughts. Those are all imaginary phantoms that miserable people use to explain their self-chosen misery and imagined spiritual slavery (a.k.a. imaginary lack of self-discipline/self-control). Such spiritual slavery is always fundamentally imaginary and a matter of dishonesty and/or delusion, namely in the sense of dishonest self-delusion. In reality, nobody lacks self-discipline or self-control; they just lie to themselves about what they want/choose. When it comes to your choices, you always get exactly what you want, meaning what you choose.

To enhance the likelihood of success, it's crucial to remain adaptable and resilient in the face of adversity. People may sometimes lack a concrete understanding of their goals or face distractions that divert them from their intended path. In such cases, reevaluating priorities, seeking guidance, and refining strategies can contribute to a more focused pursuit of success.

Therefore, a more holistic perspective on achievement includes not only the dedication to exertion but also an awareness of one's limits, the importance of continuous learning, and the adaptability to evolving circumstances. By transcending the simplistic notion of "work hard," individuals can cultivate a more sustainable and fulfilling path toward their objectives.

This is truly one powerful piece of writing. As usual it makes perfect sense too. To 'try' is not to 'do' and 'working hard' is definitely just an excuse we use when we don't want to disappoint ourselves and those around us. I think we feel better to be the victims in any situation, rather than to accept what we did wrong and do things from a different angle.

The phrase "work hard" can be misleading and potentially harmful because it oversimplifies the path to success and can foster unrealistic expectations. While hard work is undeniably important, it's not the only factor in achieving goals. Success also depends on strategic planning, effective time management, access to resources, and sometimes sheer luck.

When "work hard" becomes the sole focus, it can lead to burnout, frustration, and a sense of inadequacy if success isn't immediately achieved, despite significant effort. This phrase may also ignore systemic barriers that individuals face, such as socioeconomic factors or lack of opportunities, which cannot be overcome by effort alone.

Similarly, the word "try" can imply a half-hearted effort or lack of commitment. Both terms can be used to deflect from the need for comprehensive strategies and genuine, consistent effort. Thus, it's crucial to emphasize not just working hard but also working smart, being resilient, and adapting to challenges.

"Work hard" or try hard. hahaha, I'm having fun in the philosophy forum, this is because I have switched many jobs in my lifetime and none worked, they just want to possess an innocent soul who seems to make money to pursue his career. But you go to them the first week, they show an act of kindness after two weeks then they switch their mask. Now I'm currently pursuing a software development course and I don't want any stress and their prideful self over me. You can have your definition of hard work.

The word "try" is something I use when I don't want people to think I wouldn't do something even though I am about 90% sure that I wouldn't. It is a word I use when I want to stop feeling guilty for an action but I am sure I didn't do enough. So the word "try" is the word for excuses.

I think the right word yo use is smart work because working hard is actually for people who can't think critically. There's always a safer and easier way if doing things. And that's a smart way.

One of the most important lessons I learned from this book. Till date, I'm still learning to understand and accept it. Telling ourselves that we "should" or that we want to "try" to do something, actually makes us less accountable.

To make things happen, we have to give our best and certainly we have to put our minds and heart to it completely. That's how people make big changes.

There I no "try" only "will" and "will not".

You are correct. Everything is a choice. We choose what we need, we choose how to have it, and we choose to stick to the plan (or not to), and ultimately we choose to achieve (or not). What we misunderstand between is choosing and not properly understanding (or complicating) the situation. If we choose properly, and if we take the responsibility, then there is no way we can fail.

This reminds me of a quote from the game Assassins Creed that I really love.

Nothing is true, everything is permitted

I'm learning a lot from you Hughes. I have learned that trying is dishonest. Now I've learned that hard work is also dishonest. The analogy of the cheating spouse nailed it for me.