Do What You Say You Will

When asked off hand to help or complete a task, we often—without much thought—might agree. But what if we realize we are too busy, the chore slips our mind, or we don’t want to anymore? If you do confirm, here is why it’s important to follow through and do what you say you will.

Build Trust And Sense Of Security

When you know you can count on someone to do what they say, it takes pressure off of you. Instead of feeling like that is still a “to do” on your mental task list, you can trust that they will get the job done. This is exactly what you want to provide to others as well when agreeing to a task.

Likewise, the “trust me when I say I’ve got it” only works if the type of help being asked for matches the skills you possess. If someone asks for help with something that’s out of your wheel house, don’t agree or only do so with modification. If you’re being asked to move furniture, but have a bad back, agreeing will not do anyone any favors.

Size Doesn’t Matter, But Time Does

No matter the size of the task, if you say you will do it, do it. “Can you order more pet food tonight?” If you answer yes, “I forgot” does not enter the conversation. Order it right then. Set a reminder. Do what you have to in order to meet your obligations and meet them on time. If you’re not sure you can, say exactly that. As a team you can troubleshoot a task small or large while continuing to bolster a sense of trust and teamwork.

Treat This As A Treaty In All Relationships

If you feel you have more leeway to drop the ball with your spouse or family member, you’re wrong. You *do* likely have more ability to say no or modify asks than if your boss is asking. When you are agreeing to complete something, the weight of your commitment should not be affected by who this is committed to. If you’re unwilling to follow through or don’t find completing the task to be important against your other priorities, consider saying no and avoid the commitment altogether.