Effort Over Accomplishment

Researchers find we humans take meaning from exerting ourselves physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Often, the act of exertion makes us feel bad physically and mentally. The weak or lazy feel that by avoiding difficult effort life will be better. In actuality, the opposite is true. In his Washington Post article The brain loves a challenge. Here’s why, Richard Sima explains, “Our penchant for doing hard tings that makes us feel bad is what researchers call the ‘Effort Paradox.’ Trying hard is costly and aversive, but it’s something humans value.”

While easy feels better, there is something inside most of us which appreciates the process of affirming our physical, emotional, and/or spiritual strength. Sima points out, “People are willing to pay more for an object they built themselves than the same object built by experts.” Researchers found that outcomes were not as important as effort. In a study, two groups, one group was given rewards whether they earned them or not. The other group was given rewards only when they successfully figured out complex math problems. Then, the researchers announced that they would continue the study, but without rewards. Only the group who struggled to answer the complex problems chose to continue the study. The researchers understood that a worthy effort made the difference.

Sima confirms, “The study suggests we can learn to enjoy the journey, regardless of the destination. The effort itself can be rewarding.” Hard work is fulfilling because it reminds us that many things are possible in our life. Sima states the works of researchers when he states, “People who find meaning in their efforts tend to report higher life satisfaction and meaning as well.” The greatest satisfaction and meaning are found in the hard work directed to God. We not only receive the gift of the Effort Paradox, but also blessing found in honoring God.

Today, pray for the determination to do the hard work necessary to make a difference. The difference being the feeling of fulfillment that comes with pushing ourselves, but also for the difference valued work makes in the ministry of Jesus Christ. The more we extend ourselves, the more comfortable we get with striving. Beyond accomplishment, the act of challenging ourselves in spiritual endeavors can provide the same rush as running a marathon, climbing a mountain, or writing a novel. The difference is, spiritual tasks can have kingdom consequences.