THE BACK STORY. We’ve all been there, waiting for someone who swore they were “almost there” - only to realize they were not even close. It’s frustrating, misleading, and yes, a tiny but real lie.
Are you really almost there?
- Why do people do this?
- And how can we fix it?
THE "I'M ALMOST THERE" ILLUSION
Ever been told someone is “almost there” - but you ended up waiting way longer than you thought?
It's so frustrating, especially when you could've been doing something else - instead of just waiting for them to show up.
Scenario:
You’re waiting at a cafe for Jake - who said he was "almost there" 20 minutes ago.
- Before: Jake texts: “I'm almost there.” (Still at home - looking for his keys.)
- After: He texts: “Running late, I’ll be there in 20 minutes. Order without me.”
Aha Moment:
You relax, order coffee, and use the time productively - instead of staring at the door.
WHY IS THIS SO ANNOYING?
It’s annoying because it wastes time, builds stress, and causes doubt.
How many times can they say "I'm almost there" - before you stop believing it?
Scenario:
Ava tells you she’s “almost at the meeting” - but she’s nowhere in sight.
- Before: Ava texts: “I'm almost there.” (Actually stuck in traffic - with no estimated time of arrival.)
- After: She texts: “Traffic is bad. I’ll be 15 minutes late - start without me.”
Aha Moment:
The team starts the meeting instead of sitting around - unsure whether to wait.
WHY DO PEOPLE SAY IT?
They say it to avoid awkwardness, avoid admitting they’re late, or to buy a little extra time.
But the truth? It doesn't solve anything. Just own it - and be clear.
Scenario:
Carl promises he’s “almost there” for dinner - but the food gets cold.
- Before: Carl says: “I'm almost there.” (Still at the grocery store - picking up snacks.)
- After: He says: “Still at the store - go ahead and eat. I’ll be home in 30 minutes.”
Aha Moment:
No one waits around, annoyed. Next time, his words actually mean something.
HOW TO BE MORE STRAIGHTFORWARD
Instead of “I'm almost there” - be clear and precise.
Share a realistic time frame. People appreciate it more than excuses.
Scenario:
Emily’s boss asks if she’s on her way to an important client meeting.
- Before: Emily says: “I'm almost there.” (Still at her desk - finishing an email.)
- After: She says: “Running 10 minutes behind - sending my notes ahead now.”
Aha Moment:
Her boss adjusts expectations - instead of wondering where she is.
TIPS AND TECHNIQUES
Let’s make respect the new normal. If we want better relationships - let’s be transparent.
- Time matters.
- Trust thrives on genuineness.
Running late? Own it. No excuses.
Remember: Drop the little lies. Be clear. Be real. Build trust.
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