I kinda wonder.
Efforts could probably be expressed as a sand glass.
First, you're full of sand(efforts), just waiting to seep through.
Then ultimately when all your sand has sept through, you're left
with nothing. At this point, if you get what you want, then congrats.
If not, you'll probably need to turn over the sand-glass and try
again. Now, this is the problematic part. You probably would be fine
trying for the second or third time. But as time goes past, you might
not be as willing to do it. Ultimately, turning the sand-glass over becomes
a chore and it drains every last bit of your energy.
Question is, what do you from here on?