Hard work pays you some time or other

Yes, Hard work matters - if not now, it will matter!
As Lord Krishna, teaches us in Bhagavad Gita, we have to work, work, work. Do not expect the results or do not think about the results while you do the work.

You have rights to duty only, not to the results.
What we sow is what we get! Hence, it is clear that we will get the results of our hard work for sure.

Keep working hard - you will achieve your goals!!