What gives?

We’re always encouraged to try our best.

Being seen as trying too hard, on the other hand, is not only discouraged but seen as desperate, annoying and unnatural.

Shouldn’t hard work, initiative and intentional effort be rewarded?

When did people fault people for giving full effort?

Do we celebrate someone’s success more when it comes from a relaxed, natural and effortless approach?

I guess it depends on the context.

In a social setting, someone who tries too hard may come across as insincere and desperate for connection.

How about an entrepreneur who sold his company for 10x and slept 3 hours a day VS. an entrepreneur who is a social butterfly with the most illustrious board of directors and touts the benefits of quality sleep?

Which would you commend more?