How can you develop a sense of urgency when working on a deadline?

1 Set SMART goals

The first step to developing a sense of urgency is to set SMART goals for your work. SMART stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. By defining your goals clearly, you will know what you need to do, how you will measure your progress, whether your goals are realistic, how they align with your purpose, and when you need to finish them. SMART goals will help you break down your work into manageable steps, avoid ambiguity and confusion, and increase your accountability and commitment.

3 Communicate your expectations

Another tip to develop a sense of urgency is to communicate your expectations to yourself and others. Communicating your expectations will help you clarify your roles and responsibilities, align your vision and goals, and establish trust and collaboration. You should communicate your expectations regularly and clearly, using various channels and formats, such as emails, meetings, reports, or feedback. You should also listen to the expectations of others, such as your clients, managers, or colleagues, and address any gaps or conflicts. Communicating your expectations will help you monitor your work, improve your performance, and meet your deadlines.

4 Reward your achievements

A fourth tip to develop a sense of urgency is to reward your achievements. Rewarding your achievements will help you celebrate your progress, boost your morale, and motivate you to keep going. You can reward yourself in different ways, such as taking a break, treating yourself to something nice, sharing your success with others, or expressing gratitude. You can also reward others who have contributed to your work, such as by giving them recognition, appreciation, or feedback. Rewarding your achievements will help you maintain a positive attitude, overcome challenges, and achieve your goals.