One of the problems with missing a deadline is that once you’re late, the tension is released.

There’s no longer a rush to beat the clock. It’s overdue.

And for some missed deadlines, there’s nothing else you can do.

Like missing a flight, once you’ve missed it, you can’t miss it any worse. The plane is gone.

But…

There are some projects and goals that tolerate a bit of flexibility.

If you’re past your mark, set a revised timeline. Do it right away. Put a new due date on the calendar.

Keep some tension in the equation. Some healthy pressure on yourself. If you don’t, you might become practiced in absolving yourself for missed deadlines, and that’s a downward cycle.

So when you can, re-calibrate, and meet that next deadline.