Work smarter, not harder

“Work smarter, not harder” may sound useful and pithy, but it can accidentally train people to reject effort.

First, let me restate it using longer explanatory phrasing: If you work smarter, then you should not work as hard, because working hard is negative, not good, not preferred, not desirable. Therefore, the less hard you work, if any, the better. Working hard is not good. Don't work hard. You should not work hard at all, just smartly only.

Next, let's break it down into 2 parts:

Part 1: "Work Smarter." I have no issues or concerns with this part.

Part 2: "Not Harder." I have some issues with this part.

There are times or phases when working hard could be necessary, while trying to launch a start-up, to provide a competitive advantage, to stay on schedule when unexpected delays occur, and for many other reasons as well.

Possible replacement language:

“Work effectively."

“Work smarter and effectively."

“Work smarter and harder.”

“Work smarter and harder as needed.”

“Work smarter and harder as required to meet objectives and goals."

The point is not which of the above is correct or best. The point is to simply be aware of the words and phrases (that carry meaning) we allow to cycle through our minds - unchecked.