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Don't promise twice what you can do at once.

“Don't promise twice what you can do at once.” quote by Cato the Younger
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“Don't promise twice what you can do at once.”

Cato the Younger

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Do not overcommit; align promises with realistic capacity to maintain credibility.

In simple terms: Avoid promising more than you can deliver.

Key Takeaway

Set achievable commitments.

Themes

integrity discipline leadership expectations trust

Mood

serious pragmatic

Type

advisory historical

When to use this quote

  • political negotiations
  • business contracts
  • personal goals
  • team projects
  • public promises

Key Concepts

overextension reputation risk strategic planning

Questions to Reflect On

  • What commitments have you overstretched?
  • How can you assess realistic capacity?
A Different Perspective

Ambitious promises can damage reputation if unmet.

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