What is it about some people? What is it that drives them to make promises that are patently unkeepable? For that matter why do businesses do the same thing? It’s probably a major reason that things end up going horribly wrong. Politicians, Car Salesmen, Computer software makers, Managers, Junk Bond Salesmen, etc… I’m sure an endless list could very well be created.
Every so often there’s a good natured soul who knows how to under promise and then over deliver. To my knowledge the absolute best person at this is Derek Sivers. I like to do the same. I work on the craft. I know my limitations on certain things. I know the time things take. I like to understate things then deliver before or on time. I like to overachieve. What I can’t understand is why more people think it’s better to do the exact opposite. Promise the universe and then deliver a gift box.
One of the best companies that used to over deliver was Apple. They still deliver. However, they used to not announce anything until it was going to ship. In the past couple of years they’ve switched gears and started to announce products that are in progress. It’s a strange shift in policy. Additionally I can see how it’s probably led to some disappointment.
I think it’s one reason I tend to let some friends go. They’ll say things about wanting to do something, then when it comes time to make good on the plan, they back out, or change their minds or something. Doing it once I can understand. Doing it several times, and it becomes patently clear I don’t need to ask any further. Is there such thing as friend fraud? That’s an interesting concept – friend fraud. Again, why would you make a plan or promise to do something then let it fall through?
So when people wonder why it is that I like to let go… Here’s a little ditty that helps to explain it. This is also quite seriously one of the greatest soundtrack songs ever. EVER! What a great combination – James Bond 007 tied with Paul McCartney and Wings. Live and Let Die. While I don’t wish death upon people. I can let them wither in their own situation that they can bring upon themselves for breaking promises or underdelivering. Those that make good, or better yet, strive to right the wrong they created will always gain respect from me.
I don’t care what age you are, this is music that transcends age.
(** Disclaimer: If Sir Paul or his money hungry ex-wife decide to scare me to death, I’ll have to pull a bond maneuver on the audio. The post will remain to show my frustration with people who promise too much. **)