Why is this so hard?

Why is it that some people take pride in their actions and accomplishments, and work their rear ends off in order to achieve something, while others simply talk themselves out of doing ANYTHING they need to do in order to get a good grade or complete a project UNLESS it fits in with their plans?

Here we are - 2 days into 2010 and I'm already dreading the school scene and the ensuing battles we are sure to partake in as one boy heads into the first college test at the new school and the other begins finals week. I wish I had a crystal ball that would help me figure out what is important enough to them to motivate them to do something - anything - on their own to excel.

I just don't get it. This is so foreign to me that it drives me crazy. Scream or cry - THAT is the question!