Summiting Mount Everest. Landing on the moon. Advancing AI technologies beyond our wildest dreams. All seemingly impossible goals, achieved.
When Your Boss Gives You a Totally Unrealistic Goal
How to maintain your high standards while respectfully pushing back.
January 09, 2024
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Summary.
There are many reasons why bosses set unrealistic goals. They may have heady aspirations and subscribe to the popular notion of “big, hairy, audacious goals.” Alternatively, they may be removed from day-to-day operations and not realize the logistical or process-related difficulties of achieving it. Or they may recognize that the goal is unrealistic but face pressure from higher up the food chain or important clients. In this article, the author outlines steps to try if your boss is expecting the seemingly impossible.