Thing is, those who work hard only get more work as a reward, not more salaries.

Anyone who has worked for a company bigger than small will tell you respect for the workers is sadly a rare thing to come across. Most companies suck the work out of everyone, pay dismally small wages, while the big companies and the top 1% rejoice like it's sunshine and rainbows. There is no denying this.

It is therefore wiser to work smart, not hard. Keep on struggling.