Positive effects of deadlines

 

No deadlines

We have all faced many deadlines and most of us have felt pressure because of them. All the negative feelings that go easily hand in hand with the idea of a deadline make those deadlines sometimes unbearable. Especially for procrastinators, who love to leave everything last minute. Part of me belongs to that group and it has served me well in the past. A little bit of pressure pushes me just enough to get things done efficiently. And that part is fine. We really should use all deadlines as activation methods that give us a boost of energy instead of torturing tools that suppress our creativity and dampens our spirits. Let us twist the entire concept upside down. Let us imagine that there would not be any deadlines in anything. Everyone would have all the time in the world to complete any and all of the tasks. Do you think we could get things done in good time none the less? Some of us could. But overall we all need that little push sometimes. 

Rules and agreements have been guiding us, and an internally built-in compass helps us to navigate. Yet we sometimes lack to see the positive in the negativity of deadlines. Closing in on a deadline gives an adrenaline boost that helps to reach goals. It wakes up the brain. At least for us that are wired that way. I tested myself on this matter. I told myself that I have all the time in the world to complete a task. And I believed that. That allowed me to use any excuse not to engage with the assignment. I was able to comfort myself by saying there is no rush. And it took me way longer time to actually complete the task. I was lacking self-discipline since I had allowed myself to leave the deadline open. Deadlines are part of life and have always been. Farmers have always lived by seasons change, and certain things have needed to be done before winter and snow. Many deadlines come by nature. So safe to say, we are accustomed to deadlines. 

How can we make deadlines more comfortable?

We should set manageable goals and measure our resources before setting the deadlines. This does not mean that there should be plenty of time for everything. It means that by setting any deadlines and before agreeing on them, we should go over the project realistically and set a timeline accordingly. Make it tight enough to give the needed boost, but not so tight it prevents us from aiming for the best possible outcome. All the tasks weigh differently.  We should prioritize our time. One aide to ease the pressure is to piece the project. Visualize the path with all steppingstones and enjoy the journey. Of course, we all have tasks that are not enjoyable, but most can be made to be. Reward yourself after not so enjoyable tasks. Make sure you promise yourself that reward at the beginning to give a positive tune to your efforts. 

Focus

One huge part is to focus. All tasks should have our focus and concentration. Set your timetable and keep in mind that interruptions will occur. Learn to keep your focus on the task at hand. And learn to not panic. Keeping the mind calm is the best option. Panic launches a reaction that we try to avoid. We do not wish to freeze, nor go around in circles. With any deadline closing in on us, we wish to remain calm and well-orientated. Always aim to make the best out of what is given and never settle for the blame game.