Capitalising on current research progress, we explored via means of structural equation modelling (SEM), the operational nature of three newly developed optimising concepts: "personal resolve," "effective functioning," and "academic striving." We conceptualised self-efficacy as a source of origin, and effort expenditure and motivation towards learning as adaptive outcomes of the three mentioned concepts. Correlational responses from Taiwanese university students (N = 1010) affirmed our hypothesis regarding the operational nature of personal resolve, effective functioning, and academic striving -- for example -- (i) self-efficacy as a source of origin of personal resolve, effective functioning, and academic striving, and (ii) the effects of personal resolve and academic striving on effort, and the effects of effective functioning and academic striving on motivation towards learning. This significant evidence, overall, contributes to the study of optimal achievement best.