What do you do if your self-discipline is lacking in managing deadlines for application development projects?

When i started in software application development, in the initial days i had problem with setting deadlines. As some of the task looked easy target and some were blocked due to 3rd party blockers. So with experience and learning from seniors i understood that one should learn to have goal setting with simple logic and act smarter. SMART goals for application development is a way to kickstart. One should focus on these 5 params when defining the deadline. first is "Specific" to the need, If it is a "Measurable" activity, how fast it is feasible to "Achieve" and how "Relevant" is your involvement in the task and how much it is "Time bounded" so that you can complete your application task.

In addition to setting SMART goals, effective delegation of tasks is crucial for meeting deadlines. Assigning the right tasks to the right team members ensures that work is completed efficiently and on time. Regularly review progress and adjust timelines or resources as necessary to keep the project on track. Clear communication is also essential. Keeping everyone informed about project goals, deadlines, and any changes helps to avoid misunderstandings and ensures that everyone is working towards the same objectives.

Project management tools are essential for project managers to effectively drive a project from initiation to closure. They are necessary for planning, executing, monitoring, and controlling projects. Without these tools, managing a project becomes challenging and less efficient. Additionally, regular progress updates and check-ins with your team can help keep everyone on track and accountable for their tasks. Celebrating milestones along the way can also boost morale and motivation, making it easier to meet deadlines. Finally, it's important to be flexible and adaptable, as unexpected challenges or changes may arise. Being able to adjust your plan and priorities as needed can help you stay on schedule despite any obstacles.

"Atomic Habits" by James Clear is one of the best resources for establishing beneficial routines and enduring behavior changes, transcending fleeting New Year's resolutions. This book offers practical strategies for making significant, lasting transformations in your life.

"Consistency breeds success: Embrace your routine, own your deadlines!" Establishing a routine helps developers focus on priority tasks, ensuring timely completion. This fosters motivation, happiness, and a balanced work-life approach, encouraging them to take initiative and continuously update and improve their technical skills.

A key trait of effective management is the ability to receive and act on feedback. My experiences with senior leadership often show a deficiency in this area, negatively impacting the organization over time. I advise all leaders to annually refresh their skills in accepting feedback. While many focus on learning to give feedback—a crucial skill—it's equally, if not more, important to excel in receiving feedback, ensuring continuous personal and organizational growth.

Seeking feedback and support can also lead to increased collaboration and innovation. By involving others in your project and considering their input, you can gain new perspectives and ideas that can enhance the quality of your work. This collaborative approach can also help build stronger relationships with your team members, clients, and peers, fostering a positive and supportive work environment.

In today's competitive landscape, continuous learning is essential for every professional to stay relevant. Merely learning isn't enough; you must enhance your knowledge through books, videos, courses, and more to surpass your peers. I highly recommend audiobooks as a foundational tool to broaden your professional horizons and keep your mind engaged.