For context, I say it to myself because of my severe adhd. It's quite frequently the case that I'm inclined to not do anything at all...in which case, I use it

For context, I say it to myself because of my severe adhd. It's quite frequently the case that I'm inclined to not do anything at all...in which case, I use it as a mantra to help me just get something done. e.g., it's better to spend 10 minutes doing a workout than not at all. It can be easier to convince myself to do 10 minutes than 30 minutes. 5 minutes is also better than not at all. Still not feeling it? 2.5 minutes. Still better than not at all. I haven't really explored the thought in the context of over achievement or not. I'd be curious why bob got a C instead of an A? was he over extended and stressed? was he simply challenged by the material? Certainly living within one's capacity is a limiting factor of the mantra. It is after all just a saying that I use to help me live a healthy life in an area I often have difficulty. YMMV :)