Under promise and over deliver. It is a simple phrase that is pretty much self-explanatory; promise less that what you plan to do and work hard to produce more than you promised. People should strive to live by this simple suggestion.

Too often we put ourselves in bad situations by promising too much, too quickly. Before giving someone your word, take the time to think it through. Never promise anything that is out of your control, but only what you have the power to deliver. Keep in mind that promising more or quicker results often result in extra, unnecessary stress.

Simple ways to under promise and over deliver:

1. Stop and think before agreeing to anything.

Take all factors into account and do not promise anything out of your control. If there is no need to make a promise, then don't. If you promise your children a fun day at the zoo on Sunday, you may be setting yourself up for failure and the kids up to disappointment. You cannot control the weather and zoos tend to close during bad weather. A better option would be to say you want to take them to the zoo on Sunday and will try to make it happen, thus not making an unnecessary promise other than the promise to try. Choose your words wisely.

2. Avoid promising dates or times if possible.

If you must commit to a date or time, make it later than you expect to have it done. Set reminders to keep you on track. Early delivery will exceed expectations and result in a much happier boss or customer. If a delivery company promises to deliver a package within five days, but gets it there in three, the customer will be with be pleased with the early delivery and is likely do more business with the company. A good rule of thumb is to double the time it usually takes.

3. Stay focused and organized.

We have all heard the expression “work smarter, not harder.” Be efficient with your time by doing things right the first time and always double checking your work. If a server double checks an order and notices a mistake, they can fix it before sending it to the customer. The hassle of sending something back often frustrates the customer resulting in a smaller tip for the waiter.

4. Ask for help when you need it.

Asking for assistance is not a sign of weakness. Do not be afraid to ask your boss or your teacher to help you either. They have a vested interest in your work and want you to succeed. College students should take full advantage of the services they are paying for. Students can meet with an advisor or counselor that will answer most of their questions and inform them of available resources.

5. Always give more than what is expected of you.

Do not just do the minimum, because a little extra effort goes a long way. Hairdressers build their clientele by going the extra mile. A good stylist will ask about their clients’ day, add a neck massage during the shampoo, or even style their customers hair after the haircut. These extra gestures are not required, but go a long way in keeping customers happy and loyal.

6. Be upfront and honest if something comes up.

In life, stuff happens. Despite your best efforts, you may have to break a promise or need more time. Be forthright to the promise and offer an explanation, not an excuse. Try to determine the best possible solution for all parties involved and do not forget to apologize for any inconveniences it may have caused. If you promised to pay someone back on Friday, but your car broke down on Thursday night, let the lender know the situation. Make arrangements to pay them back as soon as possible. Most people are pretty understanding and are willing to work with you. Apologize and thank them if they agree to work with you.