In the programming world when you begin with a certain program function in mind, like “create report in 3 columns,” but then you think of ADD-ONS, “oh we need to be able to re-sort the columns, and it should have totals” it is called SCOPE CREEP. The plan of the project “CREEPS LARGER” and often creates delays for the original plan.
Maybe it’s just me, but I sometimes find myself having this argument in my head … “I NEED to call, write, text … so and so, but really they need more than that, I should pick up some groceries, oh yeah and a card, and a … oh crap I don’t have enough time to do that.” SHEESH.
Am I Alone on this one?
And here’s the kicker, not only do I talk myself out of doing the “BIGGER” thing, I too often let self-doubt of not doing “enough” keep me from doing even the SMALL something I started out thinking about doing. SCOPE CREEP shuts the WHOLE PROJECT down. And guess what, that SUCKS for the recipient, who probably would have been thrilled with a simple “hello.”
I’m trying to doing better. I finally have a stamp on the Get Well Card for my Aunt (her surgery was months ago). And I wrote a quick note to a dear friend who’s going through A LOT, and it started out … “I was waiting until I could think of something clever to say …” just to lighten the mood. I mean really, HOW LONG does it really take to write a card that says …”Hey, I’m thinking of you.” How can we manage this SCOPE CREEP so that it doesn’t paralyze us? I think we have to re-evaluate what it is we’re trying to accomplish. Are we trying to impress someone or are we trying to show love.
Be honest with yourself. Because I am being honest with myself. Here’s what I am going to do:
First … SIMPLIFY it … I’ll make the time, make the effort, and get it done.
Second … TRUST myself … I won’t beat myself up wishing I’d done more. Just getting into the habit of the smaller things will lead to bigger things, and if it doesn’t, that’s OK, too.
Third … ACCEPT APPRECIATION … when I help someone, and they say “THANK YOU,” I won’t disrespect their gratitude by saying “it was nothing” or “sorry I couldn’t do more”. I’ll say “You’re Welcome” or “My Pleasure” or “I Hope this Helps.”
Maybe this way I can keep the SCOPE CREEP monster at bay, and give folks the help that I am able to give.