When someone comes to me and says: “I need this project by this date,” I’ll look at the project and my calendar, and then say one of three things:

- “That seems doable, but I’ll let you know if any problems arise.”

- “That is going to be really tight. I’ll do my best, but if I think it can’t be done in that timeframe, I’ll let you know by the halfway point.”

- “I can’t get that done that fast. I’ll need more time.”

In the third case, when they follow up with “How much more?” I’ll give them a timeframe that fits the second case and includes the notification plan.