Mission Creep
Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-30
CORE DEFINITION
The goals of a mission gradually expand during execution, exceeding the original scope and resource allocation. This is often caused by blind confidence from early success, ultimately leading to resource depletion and strategic misalignment (e.g., the Vietnam War).
SCAFFOLDING EFFECT
Reduce cognitive load
Be wary of the side effects of success. When a project is going well, the most dangerous impulse is to 'do this while we're at it.' You must stick to the core mission (Mission Discipline) and learn to say no to extra opportunities.
Anchor fast decisions
After initial success, boundary motivation expands, and scope gradually increases until it exceeds resources/authorization; positive feedback (small wins → greater ambition) disables the brakes, falling into the 'already invested + new opportunities' trap.
MINIMUM ACTION
In progress 0/3Practice this model in one real situation:
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Source support: Explicit
- en.wikipedia.orghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mission_creepverified
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