It’s easier to judge actions as appropriate or inappropriate in hindsight. However, deciding beforehand is more difficult. Deciding what to do and how much effort to put in are unsolvable puzzles, yet action is required despite the uncertainty.

The real challenge is focusing our efforts beforehand, ensuring that we spend the appropriate amount of effort without knowing the outcome.

How do we decide what’s the appropriate amount of effort in the face of uncertainty?

What I have found is that when I have efforted to the extent that I am no longer emotionally attached to the outcome is an indicator that I have met the requirement for appropriate effort.

It turns out, when I know I have done my best, it’s easy to let go of the emotion and the outcome. Doing my best frees me from the delusion that I can impact the outcome.

Are you giving your best, or are you hoping for the best?