I'm starting to wonder if there's a balance between staying informed and micromanaging every detail.
I get what you're saying—it's easy to slip into micromanaging mode without realizing it. Maybe instead of constantly checking, you could set up quick weekly check-ins or alerts for critical items? That way you're informed without obsessing over every detail...
"Maybe instead of constantly checking, you could set up quick weekly check-ins or alerts for critical items?"
Weekly check-ins are a solid idea, but honestly, even that can sometimes feel like too much if you're juggling multiple projects. I've been there—thinking I was just "staying informed," but before I knew it, I was knee-deep in details that my crew had already handled perfectly fine without me.
One thing I've learned over the years is that trust goes a long way. If you've hired good people, they usually know what they're doing. Sure, mistakes happen occasionally, but micromanaging rarely prevents them—it just stresses everyone out. Instead, I try to focus on clear communication upfront: setting expectations clearly at the start and then stepping back to let the team do their thing.
I remember one project where I was constantly hovering over my electrician's shoulder because I'd had issues with wiring on a previous build. Eventually, he pulled me aside and said something like, "Look, either you trust me or you don't—but watching me won't make the wires run any smoother." It was blunt but true. After backing off a bit, things actually went smoother because he felt trusted and respected.
Still, it's tricky finding that sweet spot between being informed and letting go of control. How do you guys decide what's worth your attention and what's better left alone?
Weekly check-ins sound good in theory, but honestly...even those can backfire. Had a project once where I tried sticking strictly to weekly updates, thinking it'd keep me from micromanaging. Turns out, my contractor misinterpreted some details early on, and by the time the next check-in rolled around, we had to redo a bunch of framing. Lesson learned: sometimes you gotta trust your gut and do quick spot-checks at key milestones instead of just relying on a fixed schedule.
"Turns out, my contractor misinterpreted some details early on, and by the time the next check-in rolled around, we had to redo a bunch of framing."
Yeah, been there...weekly check-ins are great, but they're not foolproof. I've found quick walkthroughs at critical stages—like right before drywall or inspections—can save a ton of headaches later.
"I've found quick walkthroughs at critical stages—like right before drywall or inspections—can save a ton of headaches later."
Yeah, that's a solid point. Have you noticed if certain stages tend to cause more confusion than others? I've had similar hiccups, especially around framing and electrical work...seems like those details can easily slip through the cracks. But honestly, even with the best planning, some miscommunications are bound to happen. Sounds like you're handling it pretty well though—hang in there!
