How Do You Meet Deadlines?

Nike -- Just do it!

HAHAH, procrastination is a deadly thing that we have all experienced at one time or another (I have a calculus test in two days and I haven't even opened up my book the whole semester!)I handle procrastination by overworking and drinking lots of coffee and energy drink 24 hours before the deadline. Since I'm in college right now, there are tons of things that are due, one after another and this cycle never ends until the semester is over (then it starts again next year). To manage these things, I simply post sticky notes of due dates all over the wall in front of my desk. Then I simply get to work on the next thing that is due. Sometimes I feel like a computer, always queuing up task that are to be done and working on the top priority task.

Identify when your project must be completed, then calculate how much time you have to do it. Depending on the project, this could be days, weeks or months.Take into consideration what may sidetrack you. The more timecritical the task, the more important it is that you're realistic about what else is on your plate.Break large projects into smaller subtasks. For example, you can divide wedding planning into getting a dress, finding a reception location, hiring a caterer and so on (see 324 Create the Ultimate Wedding Checklist). To come up with an accurate schedule for the project, estimate how long you'll need to complete each subtask, making sure to build in time for unforeseen circumstances or delays.Define each subtask, and set start and end dates for each. Make sure you continually evaluate how realistic your time frame is. If you're running out of time, and there's nothing you can do about it--such as the meeting starts in 48 hours--then get creative and start trimming tasks.

I used to be very good at meeting deadlines. This is not so much the case now. Maybe it is my age, or my impatience at having to "hang around". For instance, when I have a Doctors apointment, I leave it until the last moment. This is because I hate waiting for Doctors & I become very frustratyed at wasting time. Where deadlines are very important, I keep notes in my diary to keep on track. Having a child made it more difficult to meet deadlines too.

lol we all suffer from this from time to time. hubby complains i do it anytime it has to do with shopping. i hate to shop even if it is just for milk lol. when it comes to work though or when i was in school i would set times and days when i would do certain things and unplug phones, lock the door, and even unplug the tv at times lol. i would turn on jazz or classical music nothing with words so tht i didnt start listening to the words and singing with it. lol see i was bad. no matter what i made myself do it. just make sure you have snacks ready plenty to drink so you have no excuse to stop. when you want to stop make deals with yourself. i use to tell myself ok you finish this and you can go get ice cream after words if not you cant. sounds funny but it kind of worked. you just have to find your way really and what your bargining tools are for yourself lol.