Actually I think it would be correct and reasonable to change the words of the teachers. That is: smart work instead of hard work.
If we have the chance to work without draining ourselves physically and mentally while also receiving the most benefits possible then I think we should do that. Working hard will sometimes get you nowhere because there are people who can manipulate and cheat their way to the top.
I am not saying we also should cheat our way to success but if there is an easier way to the top then let us not waste time and grab that oppurtunity.
Cheating is never a valid way to the top. Which will distort our mentality and make them a threat to the future generations to live. Even if a man honestly wants to find ways to grow he will definitely find many ways to grow if only his willpower is enough. We should not only think about ourselves to grow up so that we can give our future generations a healthy natural living environment.