When the ‘going gets tough’, a decision to change a ‘target’ date or improvement expectation may be made because, ostensibly, ‘it’s respectful’ to people; ‘failing’ to hit the target would be discouraging or make them feel bad. I believe that moving a target, once it’s set, is actually disrespectful because it sends the message that the people working on the problem aren’t capable of finding creative ways to reach the goal. Although people may feel uncomfortable struggling as they work to find those ways, that’s okay! As long as they’re supported throughout the process, they’ll learn and grow, and ultimately succeed. And in my books, that’s what being respectful really means. Challenging people and then helping them rise to meet expectations.
