Most problems arise from using linked-lists in inappropriate situations. This includes using the default String type. Both the list and string syntax have been overloadable for a while, so using alternatives when necessary shouldn't be an issue. Understand the complexity of the data structure operations you are using and you will get fast code, laziness does not change this (although space usage can be hard to reason about).

The benefits of laziness is difficult to appreciate if you are not used to it. For a great example of the benefits it brings, please read this:

http://augustss.blogspot.co.uk/2011/05/more-points-for-lazy-...