People pride themselves on giving 100% all the time. It's great in theory and is not a bad goal to have at all. However, it's just not realistic for most people. I, myself, work about five days a week, have class four days a week, attempt to regularly exercise, am part of Kappa Tau Epsilon sorority on campus and an eboard member, write for the Odyssey, and of course I have homework and studying to do. I would absolutely lose my mind if I always gave 100%. I would never have time to sleep and eat. To be healthy and happy, you have to make time for days that allow you top rest up or have fun.
This means that sometimes, I roll a few less silverware than I'm supposed to so I can get out of work a few minutes sooner. Sometimes I write my articles in an hour instead of giving them the time and thought I know they deserve. Sometimes I do homework when I know I should be planning greek life events, as KTE's social chair. Sometimes it means sleeping when I know I should be studying. With such a crazy schedule, as most working college students have, you have to pick and choose your battles. You have to constantly assess what is most important.
Not giving 100% doesn't make you lazy or a terrible person in any way. It means that if your life is as full and crazy as mine is you have learned to adapt and accept a solid 80% effort as good enough for some things. Stress can do some terrible things to your mind and body and there is plenty of stress to find while going to college. For each person, the amount you can give to your activities and academics and athletics is different. You have to find your balance of what gets what percent and learn to be okay with not giving your all to every single thing you do.
I try to always give 100% for my schooling but usually settle for 90% (okay sometimes even 80%). I try to give time for my sorority and my friends and family but they have to settle for being there for most things because I'm only one person and I have to do what is best for me. So don't always stress about giving 100 percent 100 percent of the time. Everyone could use a little less stress so give some of that effort you use for other things for yourself.
