Let’s talk about something no one wants to admit:
Sometimes, positivity can be a problem.
Overpromising in the workplace might seem like a sign of ambition or good leadership – but when it’s not backed by realistic planning, it can quietly create chaos.
What Is Overpromising in the Workplace?
Overpromising happens when teams or leaders commit to results they can’t realistically deliver.
Maybe it’s saying “yes” to every project.
Maybe it’s setting stretch goals with no resources.
Maybe it’s assuming you’ll “figure it out later.”
Whatever the reason, it leads to the same thing: teams running on empty, trust breaking down, and performance tanking.
The Dangers of Too Much Positivity
Optimism is great. But toxic positivity?
🚫 Ignores real challenges
🚫 Discourages honest conversations
🚫 Creates unrealistic pressure
🚫 Breeds a culture of blame when goals aren’t hit
Instead of motivating people, it leaves them overwhelmed and disillusioned.
How Overpromising Leads to Burnout – and Redundancy
Here’s the pattern we’ve seen (too often):
- Big goals, tight timelines, limited resources.
- Teams stretch to keep up – but can’t.
- Results fall short.
- Panic sets in at the top.
- Restructures or redundancies are rolled out.
And often, the people who are let go? They’re not underperformers.
They’re victims of unrealistic expectations.
When this happens, how you support departing team members matters.
Learn how to do it right: Redundancy Offboarding Done Right: How to Support Departing Talent
How to Avoid Overpromising at Work
✅ Set realistic goals (based on data – not just enthusiasm)
✅ Build buffer time into your plans
✅ Hire properly before committing to growth
✅ Encourage your team to flag risks early
Final Thoughts: Ambition ≠ Overcommitment
Being optimistic isn’t bad.
But when positivity becomes denial? That’s when businesses get hurt.
The solution isn’t to dream smaller – it’s to plan smarter.
Need to back your promises with real hiring power?
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This blog was inspired by The Dark Side of Positive Thinking by Everything Mental Toughness – a great reminder that mindset matters, but realism matters more.
More insights: Check out our thoughts on what the future of recruitment might look like.
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Do you have a recruitment question?
Call or email our friendly customer service team to get an answer to your recruitment questions.
