BY KEVIN DAUM

A little behind on that project? These tips will help you make sure you are done in time.

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I hate when I get behind. I try and plan well, so I have my work metered out evenly. But there are always unexpected distractions that occur. Then I have to reset everything, and there may not be enough time in the day or week to get it all done.

As best as I reprioritize, there will simply be times when I need to push against a deadline. Those times require a different approach to my productivity habits. Here are the tips I have found will help get work completed by any deadline.

1. Delegate other stuff.

When facing a hard deadline, the first thing I need is clear headspace so I can focus. I immediately move all other priorities aside, giving the critical tasks to someone I trust. If I can't delegate, I will often reset other deadlines that have flexibility. I will reach out to those involved to make sure their expectations are managed. Otherwise, my brain will be preoccupied with other issues rather than the one that requires attention.

2. Break the work into smaller chunks.

A big block of work in a short timeframe can seem intimidating. I like to dissect the project into micro-pieces so I can establish the timeline and adjust the order of tasks. Once I have a list of pieces, I can schedule them and estimate the time and effort required.

3. Use a timer.

If you're racing the clock, it helps to have a clock you can race. I give each task a rough time estimate and then do my best to collect time as I go. There is a fine line between timing and clock watching, but a glance here or there helps me keep my efforts focused and steady.

4. Crank the music.

Music acts like a metronome. Upbeat music will help me move at a faster speed. If I am approaching a thoughtful project, the music can tone down my anxiety so I can focus. Music I love also elevates my attitude when the pressure is on. I have a favorite playlist I keep around just for intense work sessions.

5. Reassess in intervals.

Working fast doesn't mean you have to work sloppy. I take periodic breaks to assess the work I have done and see where either the work or my process may need readjustment. Often the assessment happens in conjunction with the completion of sections, but sometimes the sections are more complex and I need to stop partway through and take a look. Either way, this activity prevents me from getting too far down the path with mistakes that could cost me more time.

6. Leave time for review.

No matter the timeframe, I recognize that I may be rushing the work. To maintain my standard of quality, I make sure I leave reasonable time to review the entire project to make sure it meets up to expectations. When possible, I will shoot it over to someone with fresh eyes and use the feedback for final adjustment.

What do you think? Is this something you can benefit from or do you have a few tricks up your sleeve that are just as powerful? Make your voice heard by leaving a comment below. Don’t forget to hit the share button if you know others who will find this post useful.

I.C. Collins ~ Author, Educator, Trainer and President: Has One Simple Goal: Improve a Million Automotive Sales Consultants Lives with our ebook "How to Succeed in the Automotive Sales Industry"

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