Getting in over our head can be enabling or disabling. It’s enabling when we rally resources and transcend previous limits. But sometimes, we enthusiastically take something on and then realize we may not be up to the task. Because we don’t want to disappoint the people counting on us, it’s easy to go into denial and hope that somehow everything will work out—even if there’s little chance of that happening.
When we get in over our head, it’s essential to address it early instead of going radio silent and getting in deeper. We may simply need to ask for help to span the gap. Or we may realize what we’ve offered to do—or been asked to do—is not within reach.