Completing Work on Time - How to Meet Deadlines

If you have a job that involves deadlines, here are some tips on how to meet your deadlines:

Keep track of deadlines on a calendar or schedule.  Click here for more information on how to use a calendar and schedule.

Use post-it notes to remind yourself of upcoming deadlines.  Write yourself a note and then post it in a place that you will be sure to see it.  Here are some good places to put post-it reminders:

• On your desk
• On your computer
• On a bulletin board
• On a door you use frequently

Break down a large task or project into smaller steps.  Then, set up a timeline for when you will complete each of the steps in your task.  You may need to have your supervisor break down your task into smaller steps with you and help you come up with goals for when to complete each step of the task.  Use the Break it Down worksheet for help.

Aim to complete your task before your deadline. That way, if you are early in finishing it, you will still have some time to spare.

If you know you are behind schedule, ask for help! It is much better to tell your supervisor that you need help or more time beforehand rather than waiting until you reach or have missed your deadline.

Plan to "reward yourself" after you have successfully met the deadline.  This might help keep you motivated.  Here are some examples of ways to reward yourself after you meet a deadline:

• Take yourself out to dinner.
• Buy something small for yourself (i.e. new video game, movie, clothing).
• Get together with friends.
• Rent a movie.
• Buy a special coffee drink.
• Plan an out of town trip for the weekend.

Try to relax, don’t panic.  Check out our Coping Strategies section for more help.

In order to meet your deadlines, you should: Keep track of deadlines on a calendar or schedule. Break down large tasks into smaller steps.  Make a timeline for when you will complete each step. Ask for help if you are behind schedule. Plan to reward yourself after you have successfully met the deadline. Use coping strategies to help you deal with deadlines and pressure.