What are the best strategies for managing unrealistic deadlines from editors?

2 Prioritize and plan

Another strategy for managing unrealistic deadlines is to prioritize and plan your work. Identify the most urgent and important tasks, and focus on them first. Break down your story into smaller and manageable steps, such as finding sources, conducting interviews, writing an outline, drafting the main points, revising the structure, proofreading, etc. Assign a time limit for each step, and stick to it as much as possible. Use a calendar, a planner, or a tool like Trello to organize your work and track your progress. Avoid distractions, procrastination, and multitasking, and concentrate on one task at a time.

3 Seek help and feedback

A third strategy for managing unrealistic deadlines is to seek help and feedback from others. You don't have to do everything by yourself, and you can benefit from the support and advice of your colleagues, friends, or mentors. For example, you can ask someone to help you with research, transcription, or fact-checking, or to review your draft and give you constructive feedback. You can also use online resources, such as databases, podcasts, or blogs, to find relevant information or inspiration for your story. However, be careful not to rely too much on others or to plagiarize or copy their work. You still need to maintain your own voice and originality.

4 Simplify and streamline

A fourth strategy for managing unrealistic deadlines is to simplify and streamline your work. Sometimes, less is more, and you don't need to overcomplicate or overdo your story. Instead of trying to cover every angle or detail, focus on the main message and the most relevant facts. Use clear, concise, and engaging language, and avoid jargon, fluff, or filler words. Use simple and effective formats, such as lists, bullet points, or quotes, to organize and present your information. Use tools like Grammarly, Hemingway, or ProWritingAid to check and improve your writing. Remember that quality matters more than quantity, and that your editor and your audience want a clear and compelling story.

5 Take care of yourself

A fifth strategy for managing unrealistic deadlines is to take care of yourself. Working under pressure can take a toll on your physical, mental, and emotional health, and you need to balance your work and your well-being. Make sure you get enough sleep, eat well, exercise, and hydrate. Take breaks, relax, and do something you enjoy. Don't be too hard on yourself, and celebrate your achievements. Seek help if you feel overwhelmed, stressed, or burned out. Remember that you are not a machine, and that you need to respect your limits and your needs.

6 Learn and improve

A sixth and final strategy for managing unrealistic deadlines is to learn and improve from your experience. After you finish your story and submit it to your editor, take some time to reflect on what went well and what didn't. Identify your strengths and weaknesses, and think of ways to improve your skills and your workflow. Ask for feedback from your editor, your colleagues, or your audience, and use it to grow and develop as a journalist. Keep track of your achievements, and update your portfolio and your resume. Learn from your mistakes, and avoid repeating them. Use every deadline as an opportunity to challenge yourself and to become a better journalist.