คุณภาพของความพยายาม : หน้า 129/207

Knowing the objective of an undertaking is not enough to guarantee the quality of that effort. If a person stops short of a wholehearted attempt, the objective may be realized, but the quality is poor. Going back to the clothes washing example, we know that we have to pay attention to the collar and the cuffs, and we also know that it will take 30 scrubs to get rid of the stains. Unfortunately, if we stop at just 10 scrubs, the stain will be lessened but that shirt is still not clean. This rule is applicable to any task. Acting with the right objective, but not to the fullest extent, will only bring a second-rate result. The failure to exert oneself to the limit can be likened to a smart but lazy person. He knows the objective, and he knows what it takes to reach it with flying colors. But halfway through, he will lose motivation and resort to shortcuts. Therefore, knowing the objective and pursuing it to the fullest extent are the only ways to achieve the best result possible. One must not be lazy, procrastinate or be discouraged by obstacles. 3. The third condition is to remember not to overextend oneself. Acting on the right objective to the fullest extent does not guarantee success. A person should also apply the appropriate degree of effort, meaning not too much and not too little so that the effort does not cause any harm. Going back to the clothes washing illustration, if we scrub at the right areas, but instead of 30 scrubs, we go overboard and do 100, we may in fact put holes in that shirt. Another example of how some people can extend themselves too far: They work too hard without getting enough rest until their health is ruined. On top of this, they work on borrowed funds. Their hard work hurts them physically and financially. Therefore, to achieve the right outcome, we must meet the three criteria: knowing the objective, putting forth the right effort, and realizing the natural limitations. The Conditions Outside Even when we have been able to focus on the objective, give it our full effort, and stay within our limitations, there are still two outside conditions which can influence the outcome. They are: 1. Timing If we plant a banana seedling today, can we expect to eat the banana tomorrow? Naturally no. But if we planted it yesterday, and there is no banana for us to eat today, does that mean that our effort has come to naught? Not exactly. It just means that it may bear fruit someday. The Warm Hearted Family 256 How Good Deeds Can Bring Good Outcomes The Warm Hearted Family 257 How Good Deeds Can Bring Good Outcomes