Lesson 4 of 6
Avoiding overbuilding
Learning objectives
- Recognise the most common overbuild patterns
- Apply a single test before adding anything new
- Cut scope when the plan slips, not when it ends
- Protect delivery time from build time
The overbuild patterns
New website rebuild before the offer earns. New CRM before there are 20 clients. New tech stack before the current one breaks. New brand identity before the current one is even recognised.
The single 'add' test
Before building anything new ask: does it directly move one of the 4 numbers in the next 30 days? If no, it goes in the day-91+ file. No exceptions.
Cut scope mid-plan
If you're behind at day 45, cut scope then — don't wait for day 90. The plan is a contract with your future self, not a fixed scope to die defending.
Founder insight — Derrick Twum
Most failed 90-day plans were great plans with too much in them. Cut by 30% the moment you write the plan — it'll still be ambitious.
Key takeaway
If it doesn't move the 4 numbers in 30 days, it doesn't go in the plan. Cut scope mid-plan, not at the end.
Reflection questions
- 1Which overbuild pattern have you fallen into before?
- 2What's in your current plan that fails the 'add' test?
- 3Where will you cut 30% before you start?
- 4What's the trigger to cut more at day 45?
Action task
Run the 'add' test on every item in your plan and remove anything that fails.
Worksheet
Work through these prompts. Answers save to this device.
Answers are saved to this device only. Cloud sync coming soon.
Related MEM tools
- Business Planner