Take Your Time

Have you ever thought "if only I had taken 5 more minutes..."? I can relate.

On my second feature film, due to release this Summer, I said to my cast and crew, "had we only taken five more minutes, this could've happened or this wouldn't have happened."

Ever feel like that in business?

During our movie production in the summer of 2025, it was very hot and windy most days. Everyone was fatigued as the days went on and decision-making was becoming questionable by the minute.

One the movie was in post production (editing), it was determined quickly in some scenes that five more minutes could've enhanced or corrected a scene. Such a decision would eliminate the need for additional work, such as audio re-dubbing or scene re-shoots.

When we do a rush job or just plain don't take into account time in business decisions, especially marketing, it can cost us. It can cost us time, more money, potential legal issues or our reputation. I've witnessed businesses run into all these things.

They either didn't take time to hire a qualified professional, put an unlicensed song or image in advertising, rushed an ad copy that didn't represent their brand or misspoke on something that watered down their reputation.

Taking time, even if for a moment or two, can often save someone a high percentage of potential metaphorical headaches. Rush the process or cut corners now, pay double, if not more, later.

Here's a sad example on a big scale. The Sonic the Hedgehog movie released their first trailer and quickly became one of the most disliked movie trailer in recent history. Sonic, did not look anything like the lovable game character many grew up knowing. He looked very creepy. After much backlash, studios went back and re-created Sonic and had to redo every frame of the major motion picture prior to even considering releasing the movie. It pushed deadlines, closed studios and people lost jobs. Question is, was it because someone didn't take the time earlier on to question the original Sonic model. Possibly. Regardless, the initial decision, caused a lot of financial distress, people's livelihoods as creators and it resurfaced the question on whether or not Sonic the Hedgehog the movie, would define a new era of video game movies. Which already had a poor reputation.

Fortunately, Sonic the Hedgehog, was fixed, released and there is reportedly a fourth movie in production.

I encourage you to take your time especially on big decisions that define you, your brand and business. If your gut instinct clinches just a little, take it as a big warning. Always consult with those around you who will be honest and upfront with you. Take into consideration their initial thoughts and take action before moving forward.