[austincheney]

> I truly do not think it's a lie. Not sure why you think it's a thrill. It's saved me hundreds of hours, if not more.

Its a lie so long as the number sounds completely invented. I suspect the number comes from somewhere, maybe a vague memory, or a grossly unqualified estimation, but it isn't based on anything. It is something superficial that primarily serves as self reassurance.

When you have never had to bill people for your time, or you have never been to a board meeting, or never briefed senior executives this kind of fantasy is perfectly fine. The moment there is money on the table you are expected to do more than invent fictional numbers, or you will be replaced by somebody who can.

[luxphl]

I have worked as a consultant for 5 years where I billed people for my time, and paid at least $200k to other contractors in that period for help on projects; it's not made up and it is based on my experience tracking my own time and productivity, and that of my subcontractors.

I do think it's more abstract and harder to justify properly when someone is a well paid salaried employee for a FAANG. But that's not me.