Imagine this.
It’s a lazy day and you’re chilling on your bed when you receive a text from your best friend.
All it says is, “i’m moving”.
Hoping this text is just a prank you call them to talk about it.
Unfortunately, it isn’t a prank and they’re moving for real.
As soon as reality sets in, what’s the first thing that you do?
If you’re anything like me or my friends, the first thing you’d do is make plans to hang out with them before they leave. Suddenly all the cafes you haven’t visited and all the dumb shit you haven’t done yet comes to your mind.
You start planning trips and days out, trying to make the most of the time you have left.
But why is it that we only seem to appreciate people once we know they’re gone?
It seems as if you never really know what you have until you don’t have it anymore.
And this isn’t the only case.
You’ll miss your favorite restaurant way more after it has shut down, and think of that one road trip nostalgically the week after it has ended.
We all know how valuable time is, but often it seems like we take it for granted when we have an abundance of it.
Even though deadlines seem like a limitation, they’re not.
With no deadlines or other restrictions to constrain us, we fill our days with distractions, allowing each moment to slip away without accomplishing anything of real value or meaning. However, this all seems to change once there is a deadline looming.
Suddenly we are much more purposeful in our actions, focused on making the most of this limited resource and squeezing every bit of value out of each day. We no longer waste time getting lost in trivial tasks or vapid activities that offer no tangible benefit.
Instead, we prioritize our efforts, knowing that every minute counts when we are working against the clock. And so while it may seem simple enough to just schedule our time better and set clear goals from the start, sometimes it takes an external constraint like a deadline to truly appreciate why these strategies are so essential for realizing our true potential.
Here are two ways I’ve learnt to use deadlines to my advantage.
Set deadlines for projects
When it comes to getting things done, one of the most important things is having a set schedule and sticking to it. Whether you’re working on a large project or simply trying to check off items on your daily to-do list, having clear deadlines is key. Without specific deadlines set out for a task, it’s easy for things to fall through the cracks. But by identifying clear target dates and working towards them, you can stay focused and on track. So if you want to get more done and be more effective with your time, make sure that you set firm deadlines for everything that you do. With a little bit of planning and discipline, you’ll be amazed at what you can accomplish.
Make time for activities your love
At the end of a long week, it can be tough to motivate yourself to keep working. However, by scheduling things that you love, you can turn this challenge into an opportunity. Whether you spend your free time reading a favorite book, playing your favorite sport, or even just relaxing with family and friends, these activities will give you something to look forward to. And by focusing on the positive aspects of your work in the meantime, you can increase your motivation and productivity. So if you’re feeling burned out, don’t hesitate to schedule things that you love – they will help keep you energized and focused throughout the day.
So the next time you feel like you want to get something without dragging for days, set a deadline to it.
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