In today’s speed-driven world, it can feel like getting things done fast is all that matters. Terms like “minimum viable product,” “rapid iteration,” and “just ship it” dominate conversations. Being quick on your feet is important, but under all that hustle lurks a hidden cost.
Legendary basketball coach John Wooden put it best with a question so simple, it’s almost disarming: “If you don’t have time to do it right, when will you have time to do it over?”
This isn’t just a clever saying — it’s a wake-up call. It forces us to see the real cost of doing things fast instead of doing them right.
The Sneaky “Redo Tax”: The Cost of Rushing
When we rush, we don’t just risk mistakes — we pay what’s called a “Redo Tax.” You won’t see it on an expense report, but it quietly drains time, money, and energy.
What does this tax look like?
- Wasted Resources: Hours and dollars spent fixing mistakes could have gone into new ideas or growing the business.
- Crushed Morale: Repeated mistakes wear people down. Constant damage control drains morale and stifles creativity.
- Lost Customer Trust: Customers don’t remember how fast you delivered – they remember when things didn’t work. And rebuilding trust is harder than earning it in the first place.
Build a Culture of “Do It Right the First Time”
This doesn’t mean slowing to a crawl. It means working with intention and being clear about what “right” looks like from the start.
Here’s how leaders can help:
- Define “Right”: Set clear, realistic standards for quality before you start.
- Give Permission to Pause: Make it safe for anyone to say, “Let’s double-check this.”
- Celebrate Thoroughness: Don’t just praise speed — notice the people who catch mistakes before they reach your customer.
Wooden’s wisdom doesn’t dismiss speed — it warns against carelessness. His message is a reminder to work in a way that’s sustainable, respectful, and truly efficient.
So, before you rush to the next finish line, pause. Ask Wooden’s question. You might just save yourself — and your team — a whole lot of time, energy, and money.
THE PATH TO LEADERSHIP AWAITS. ARE YOU READY TO TAKE THE FIRST STEP?
At Leaders Team, we blend our disruptive expertise and mentoring to transform challenges into victories, paving the way for groundbreaking success. Our history of reinventing businesses across North America and Europe, including partnerships with organizations like Canada Brokerlink, Whirlpool, U.S. Air Force, and Hallmark Luxury Care Homes showcases our commitment to meeting and exceeding expectations.
Dive into a world where limitations are dismantled, and breakthrough results await. Whether you’re seeking to reshape your company’s culture, empower your team, or achieve unprecedented business outcomes, we’re here to guide you through every step.
Connect with us for a journey of transformation and empowerment. Reach out at general@leadersteam.com or schedule your complimentary consultation here. Together, let’s create a lasting impact and steer your organization towards a future filled with success and fulfillment. Visit our website to learn more about our services.
