First person Quote by H. Paul Honsinger
““One: Never, ever hurry. If you do something fast once, people will expect you to do it that fast every other time. Two: Never be the first person to do anything. To err is human, but to err in a way no one has erred before makes people question your judgment. Three: There is no mistake that cannot be papered over by enough of the right kind of documentation. Once the dust settles, it’s not what you do, but what you say about what you did, that matters.” The””
About This Quote
Rushing creates expectations; being first invites scrutiny; documentation can mask errors, but narrative matters most.
In simple terms: Speed, originality, and record‑keeping shape perception.
Key Takeaway
Balance speed, originality, and clear communication.
Themes
speed
originality
documentation
perception
leadership
Mood
analytical
cautious
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- project management
- public speaking
- software development
- creative work
Key Concepts
expectation management
risk of novelty
communication strategy
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you ensure quality beyond paperwork?
- When is it worth being first?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on documentation can hide underlying problems.
