I recently took a position with a new organization that requires a specific professional certification within 6 month of my hire date as a condition of employment. Failure to obtain this certification within the designated time will result in termination. Period.
Roger that!
I’ve been in this new position for 4 weeks and have been studying a little every day for the certification exam, and making good progress. However, in an effort to make sure I’m focused in my study, I imposed a deadline by registering to take the exam on August 18, 2016.
For me, having a deadline causes me to be more focused and purposeful in my study, because I know the test is only a couple of weeks away, and I need to take steps today so I can be ready when August 18th arrives.
It is easy to slack off or lose focus during the pursuit of a goal if we don’t have a very specific target in mind. Consider the following goals many people have:
- To get out of debt
- To lose weight
- To start a business
- To write a book
My question to people that state these and other goals to me is, “By when?”
Without a deadline in mind, it’s just a desire or a wish that may or may not ever be started, let alone completed. If I ask someone the “By when” question and they instantly give me a date, the probability of them being successful is quite high. They have a hard deadline they are working toward, rather than just a lofty dream. A deadline provides the motivation, the game clock on the scoreboard, to let you know if you’re on the track toward reaching your goal.
Do you have a goal or objective you’re working on that could use the boost of a deadline? If so, set yourself a deadline and use it to help you make consistent daily progress in the direction of your goal.
Inspiring
Good concept. Agree completely. Procrastinators (like me) work best when under the gun. Best to set a deadline, even if it’s fake.
Totally agree, Christopher! If find it easy to put off finishing, or getting started, on something if I don’t have the urgency a deadline presents.