Effort is defined as “a vigorous or determined attempt”

Result is defined as “a consequence, effect, or outcome”

Using linear logic the result would be the outcome of your effort.  But we all know that this is not linear.  While effort should be recognized, it is results that matter!

Allow me to use example, I will probably spend a couple of hours worth of effort on this post, but in all likelihood it won’t result in any more up votes than my “Dad Joke of the Day!” posts that I place very little effort into producing.   Proving in this case, that my 2 hour effort does not equate to a better outcome (Result) than 5 minutes of effort. 

There may be many explanations why Effort doesn’t always produce Results.  In the case of Steemit, it may be that I am not the best writer, my topic is not popular, the tags are bad, the timing of the post did not occur at peak usage, etc.  But that doesn’t mean that the effort should not be recognized.

Effort Should be Recognized Regardless of Result

Over the long run, Effort is a behavior that may eventually lead to increased Results.  Therefore, Effort should always be recognized.  Effort is a meaningful activity and we should always show appreciation and respect for anyone that puts forth an attempt regardless of the outcome (Result).

But Results Matter and Should Be Rewarded

While effort should always be recognized, Results need to be rewarded.  Let’s face it, the Reward is the Motivator.  Many times the anticipated Reward determines the level of Effort that you are willing to put forth.  If I think spending 2 hours crafting a post will result in a large reward, the more likely I am to put forth the Effort. 

Reward Determines Effort

We all choose the level of Effort we are willing to expend to achieve a Result. That decision is primarily based on the anticipated Reward for expending that Effort.  If the potential Reward for the Result does not match or exceed the anticipated Effort to reach that Result, the less motivated we will be to put forth the Effort to achieve.  Going back to my Steemit example-  If I consistently find that my 5 minutes of Effort to craft a Dad Joke of the Day! (which I highly recommend you read and up vote:)) produces the same Result (reward) as my 2 hours of Effort to craft a thought provoking post, what do you think I will begin spending most of my time doing.  That’s right, I will shift my behavior to the low effort activity.  

Conclusion

Results should matter, and Effort should be considered as a behavior that drives results.  While we should encourage that Effort through recognition and appreciation, the Reward for the Effort needs to be based on the Results! 

As always I welcome your thoughts, comments and of course your up vote?