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Say your husband wants to start a business creating…

“Say your husband wants to start a business creating topiary sculptures for clients. You think the idea is bonkers, but you admire his passion, so it seems cruel to veto it. Instead, set a tripwire. Okay, dear, let’s give the topiary-sculpture business a shot, but can we agree that we won’t invest…” quote by Chip Heath
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““Say your husband wants to start a business creating topiary sculptures for clients. You think the idea is bonkers, but you admire his passion, so it seems cruel to veto it. Instead, set a tripwire. Okay, dear, let’s give the topiary-sculpture business a shot, but can we agree that we won’t invest more than $10,000 of our savings in it? Alternatively, you might say: Go for it, but if you don’t have a paying customer within three months, let’s talk seriously about Plan B.””

Chip Heath

About This Quote

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

Suggests setting clear limits on support for a partner’s risky venture to balance encouragement and risk.

In simple terms: Set boundaries when backing a risky idea.

Key Takeaway

Define limits and milestones for support.

Themes

relationships entrepreneurship risk communication

Mood

practical supportive

Type

advice relationship

When to use this quote

  • marriage
  • startup planning
  • financial budgeting

Key Concepts

decision‑making boundary‑setting

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you communicate limits without discouraging?
  • What criteria define a successful trial?
A Different Perspective

May strain trust if limits feel restrictive.

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