#679 two weeks

I just watched the movie The Money Pit, a 1986 classic where (a very young) Tom Hanks and Shelley Long buy a mansion that is replete with hidden troubles.  They are forced to hire a team of contractors to essentially rebuild the place, including plumbing, electricity, the indoor staircase, etc. 

Tom Hanks' character asks the lead contractor how long the work will take, and the foreman answers: "Two weeks."  Keep in mind that this is a 5000 square foot house, stripped to the rafters, in need of serious repair.  Two years would be a more realistic reply.

Have you been in the position where you have made promises that were similarly ludicrous?  Do you tend to answer what you believe the recipient wants to hear vs. what is realistic?

Even if your intent is good or if the outcome will be poorly received, it is better to speak with honesty than hyperbole.  "Two weeks" is a slapstick comedy answer, not a way to do business.

-- beth triplett
leadershipdots.blogspot.com

@leadershipdots
leadershipdots@gmail.com