So, let’s talk about reliability and why I believe it’s one of the most underrated traits out there. The beauty of reliability is that it’s free—it doesn’t cost you anything. It doesn’t require talent or luck. You don’t need to be exceptionally gifted or fortunate to be reliable. All it takes is consistency: showing up, doing the work, and getting the job done.
The Power of Consistency
Consistency and reliability build trust. People are far more likely to entrust you with bigger and more important opportunities when they know you’re dependable. It’s a trait that compounds growth over time. You might recall a previous post I wrote about getting 1% better each day; being reliable is a fundamental part of that incremental improvement.

Employers and friends alike value reliability. In the workplace, it can lead to promotions and leadership opportunities. In your personal life, it opens doors to adventures and experiences that you might otherwise miss out on. Your reputation hinges on it: do you want to be known as someone people can count on or someone who’s always late and unprepared?

Reliability also demonstrates a level of personal accountability. There’s a popular Woody Allen quote:

“Eighty percent of success is showing up.”

Simply being present and ready to contribute sets you apart more than you might think.

On a personal note, I have a three-strike rule when making new friends. If someone turns me down or no-shows three times, I’m less likely to invite them again. They’ve shown themselves to be unreliable and inconsistent, and trust is harder to build from there.

The Allure and Limitations of Exceptionalism
So, how else can you achieve success without being reliable? The most obvious answer is through exceptionalism. Many people focus on exceptional moments—the big sale, a standout performance, or that perfect vacation they’ve been dreaming of. These are the highlights, the peaks that stand out.

This brings us to a fascinating counterpoint explored in The Power of Moments by Chip and Dan Heath. The book delves into uniquely memorable experiences, like the Magic Castle Hotel’s popsicle hotline—a quirky, unforgettable perk that sets them apart. Exceptional qualities like these can make you stand out, but they often have diminishing returns. You can’t replicate them over and over with the same impact; what was once exceptional becomes normalized.

Exceptionalism is fantastic for first impressions and special occasions. Balancing reliability with occasional exceptional moments is encouraged. Just remember that exceptionalism should remain special; it shouldn’t become the norm. Save it for product launches, big presentations, or those once-in-a-lifetime trips. Hit those high notes hard and with unabashed energy, but recognize that they won’t replace the steady beat of reliability.

Actionable Tips for Enhancing Reliability
So how can you become more reliable? Here are some actionable tips:

1. Develop Better Habits: Build routines that support consistency. I’ve written extensively about habits and frameworks you can adopt to make reliability second nature.

1. Set Realistic Goals: Start with SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals. This approach ensures you’re setting yourself up for success rather than disappointment.

1. Master Time Management: How you manage your time directly impacts your reliability. Use tools and techniques to stay organized and punctual.

1. Under-Promise and Over-Deliver: If you think you can complete a task by Friday, promise it for the following Tuesday. Delivering early makes you look like a hero, and consistently meeting deadlines builds trust.

Remember the old Aesop’s fable about the tortoise and the hare? The slow and steady tortoise beats the lightning-quick hare every time. Building a company, a career, or a portfolio is a marathon, not a sprint.

The Long Game of Reliability

In the short term, it’s much harder to be exceptional than it is to be reliable. But in the long run, being consistently reliable makes you pretty exceptional. Reliability doesn’t just lead to success; it cultivates it over time.