Preparation
Measure Twice, Cut Once - the wisdom in planning ahead
There’s a good reason the old saying “measure twice, cut once” has stood the test of time. It’s not just about engineering or joinery; it’s a philosophy that applies to almost every aspect of life.
Whether you’re making a critical business decision, planning a project, or (as I learned the hard way) fitting a gate lock, taking the time to double check your assumptions can save you from frustration, wasted effort, and unnecessary expense.
The Gate Lock Lesson
Today, I had a simple task. Fit a new lock to my gate. The winds during storm Eowyn had unfortunately ripped it off the post, so I had to re-hang it and replace the locks for it, so I wanted a fancy one that works with a key from the outside. That lock came in two sizes of 50mm and 70mm.
I had previously measured 40mm, so I confidently selected the 50mm option, assuming it would be just right. It wasn’t!
That 40mm measurement was a measurement I'd taken whilst trying to fix the gate and not the actual measurement I needed. Now I’m stuck with a lock that’s 20mm too short. The 70mm lock was the right one all along. Now, I have to go back, buy another lock, and start over.
It’s a small mistake with a small impact, but it highlights a bigger truth: taking a moment to verify can prevent unnecessary rework.
The 7 Ps – A Principle for Success
In engineering, business, and even day-to-day life, the 7 Ps remind us of this same lesson:
“Proper Planning and Preparation Prevents Painfully Poor Performance”
(I know, I'm trying to stay professional)
If I had double checked my measurements, I’d have avoided the hassle of refitting the lock. This principle applies far beyond DIY:
In business: Rushing a decision without fully analysing the data can lead to costly mistakes.
In fitness: Jumping straight into a workout without a decent warm up can lead to injury or wasted effort.
In personal finance: Making a big purchase without checking all costs and comparing alternatives can mean you spend more than you need to.
In relationships: Speaking without thinking could result in you saying something that could be taken the wrong way.
Small Steps, Big Impact
Double checking your work, verifying your assumptions, and preparing properly may seem like minor steps but they can have a huge impact. It’s not just about preventing mistakes. It’s about working smarter.
So next time you’re faced with a decision whether it’s as simple as buying a lock, or as complex as planning a business expansion - take a step back and check twice. You’ll save time, money, and frustration.
And if you ever catch yourself thinking, “I’m sure it’ll be fine” - stop right there, grab the tape measure, and check again.
