When Haste Doesn’t Make Waste

We all know that haste makes waste, right?

Or does it?

There are times when speed is more important than taking your time.

When does speed matter?

More often than you might think.

The Need For Speed

Obviously doing something too quickly can cause rework, especially if you trade speed for quality. Sloppy work inevitably causes you to have to redo work.

However, there are times when speed is key…

– When something is due

– When timing is of the essence

– When an opportunity might pass you by

Some people claim that they work best when under pressure. When they have to work quickly. When they are under an impossible deadline. (Ironically, many of these people are guilty of self-creating their time crunch in the first place…)

But, there is something to this.

When we push ourselves, we can act quickly. With deadly accuracy. The adrenaline and thrill of the hunt allow you attack your tasks with vigor and courage.

Do Something…Quick!

We often talk about the need to act versus talk.

Sometimes speed can be the difference between getting things done and letting opportunities slip by you.

Make decisions. Get something done. Grab that opportunity.

“Things may come to those who wait… but only the things left behind by those that hustle.”

– Abraham Lincoln

Sometimes it isn’t about quality, but quickness.

Here are just a few of the times when speed matters:

• First is First – Sometimes there are no points for second place. Sometimes being first is the key to getting ahead. And yes, sometimes the “good” beats the “best.”
• Productivity Rampage – Use speed to conquer small and unsavory tasks. Go on a productivity rampage and let your speed knock out many todos in a row. Email, phone calls, or other small tasks are good candidates for this approach. The other day I knocked out 10-15 calls in less than half an hour. Some of these I had been avoiding, but putting them together I was motivated to quickly run through all of them.
• Making Decisions – Many of us are guilty of not making decisions. We wait and we wait. Hoping for a magical answer to be revealed to us. I am not saying to be rash. But, often it is better to go with your gut. Be bold. Make that choice. There are very few decisions that you cannot change at a later time.
• Grab That Opportunity – Don’t let opportunities get by you because you are slow to act. Many opportunities in life are fleeting. Like the cheetah after its prey, sometimes you have to act quickly. Whether it is a business opportunity or the chance to meet someone, jump when the situation calls for it.

Speed Matters

Be nimble. Be quick.

Sometimes speed makes all the difference.

Don’t afraid to act quickly when the circumstances are right.

You may need to catch that opportunity. Or that open door.

While you see a chance… take it. Just do it quickly.

When was the last time that you benefited by acting quickly?