small states

en·deav·or
n.
A conscientious or concerted effort toward an end; an earnest attempt. Purposeful or industrious activity; enterprise.

v. en·deav·ored, en·deav·or·ing, en·deav·ors

v. tr.
To attempt (fulfillment of a responsibility or an obligation, for example) by employment or expenditure of effort: endeavored to improve the quality of life.

v. intr.
To work with a set or specified goal or purpose.