I recently polled Get Organized Now! readers, 'When it comes to deadlines...' Here are the results:

48% I get things done on the date due with no issues
27% I meet my deadlines, but it's a last-minute chaotic nightmare
18% I'm always well ahead of the deadlines
4% I'm always just a little late with my deadlines
3% I never meet my deadlines, sadly

We all have deadlines we need to meet...bill paying, work-related tasks, planning vacations, studying for a test, or anything else we need to get done within a specified time frame.

First off, bravo! Most GON readers are pretty serious about beating and/or meeting deadlines.

34% of GON readers fall on the side of not getting things done on time or, at best, getting things done with a side order of stress and chaos. If you are a member of the 34% club and wish that you weren't, there are ways to get out.

And, of course, even the best of us miss a deadline now and then, or at least come dreadfully close. This can be due to hectic schedules, challenges that come along, or the busy days prior to a vacation.

Here are some ways to never miss a deadline:

1) Give yourself ample time. Most people way-underestimate the time it's going to take to complete something...no matter what it is. However long you feel it's going to take, 'double' or 'triple' that number. Then plan 'backwards' accordingly on your calendar. Also, in most cases, the earlier you start, the better.

2) Break it down. Don't trust any large project is going to be done in one huge piece. Break it down into time frames...so much time to work on it every month, then break it into every week, then break it into so many days in a week... you get the idea. Once you do this, include this time on your paper or digital calendar (eg. 30 minutes work time for ABC project) for however many days you've determined it's going to take.

3) Don't push the deadline. If you fall behind a day or two, rather than push the deadline, put more focused time and effort into it the next day you plan to work on it. In doing so, you should be able to get back on track, rather than falling way behind or giving yourself the OK to keep moving the deadline.

4) Don't skip breaks. Although working straight through start-to-finish may sound like the way to go, you may actually be more productive when you take breaks in between. A few minutes away from the task at hand can help to clear your mind and refuel the jets that may be running low. This is another reason why it's so important to generously pad your time.

5) Keep tabs on yourself and give yourself mini-rewards along the journey. When I have big deadlines to meet, I have mini-deadlines clearly outlined in my calendar...and as I meet each mini-deadline, I enjoy mini-rewards for my efforts that are appropriate for what I completed so far. This makes the journey itself more fun and rewarding.

To fast-forward to getting better grades, visit:

https://www.getorganizednow.com/rd-grades.html

In my neighborhood, back-to-school is happening in just a few weeks. In some places, it has already begun. Whether YOU HAVE a son, daughter or grandchild in school, or YOU are in school yourself, NOW is a great time to be sure those grades are where you want them to be... without the hassles, the cramming, the endless hours of studying, the frustration, or the agony!

This resource I love and recommend is perfect for anyone in grade school, middle school, high school, college or beyond. For more information, visit...

https://www.getorganizednow.com/rd-grades.html

P.S. Because we are BIG believers in this program and in helping anyone in school to do as well as possible, when you order anything from the Get the Best Grades web site, BEFORE FRIDAY, AUGUST 23RD AT 11:59 p.m. (CST) email me and I'll send you $125 in complimentary eBook bonuses as follows...

* Smart Schooltime Recipes
* Holidays for Family Travel Tips
* Directions for Improving Your Life
* Grad Expectation: The essential guide for graduates
* A Plum in the Syrup: 17 Ways to Live a More Fulfilled Life

P.S. To get your complimentary bonuses, just email me at: getorgnow@charter.net along with your order number and I'll email your files immediately.

Feature Article 20 ideas to help students get organized
getorganizednow.com/organizing-article-students-organized.html



GON Ask Maria A GON reader asks, 'My daughter's room is a mess. Any suggestions?' Read Maria's response
getorganizednow.com/ask-maria-daughter-room-mess.html


In ADDITION, on my home page, you'll also find lots of NEW and featured STUFF including...

Facebook Feature Make your needs your wants, and your wants few...this is a must-read article

Working hard is our theme of the week. What are you working hard on this week?

Good reasons to put down your phone Get all the reasons why in our cute graphic

August Organizing Checklist Check out our August Organizing Checklist, but don't look back. Start with today's date and move forward

August Organizing Mini-Challenges For August, our mini challenges are focused on Being Prepared. This week, focus on WEEK THREE.

Featured Web Poll When do you prepare for a typical day? Vote in our web poll and let us know

Access all of the above on my home page. Visit:
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'Respect your deadline like it's a field marshal.' --Neeraj Agnihotri

I'd love to hear from you.

Comments, suggestions, or just to say hello. Just REPLY to this email with a short note.

And remember...Being organized creates a happier, healthier, more fulfilling life!

Warmly,

Maria Gracia
Get Organized Now!

getorganizednow.com

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