The Power of a Deadline

It’s amazing the excuses we come up with to avoid taking action.

Recently, on my Internet Independence website, I held a "before and after" business transformation contest. Entrants had to show how their business grew over six weeks. They could have shown a growth in email list size or sales. The winner would receive $250.

However, out of 7000 readers, I had only two entries. I also received a LOT of excuses for why people didn't enter.

The excuses were not very good. They may as well have told me, "their dog ate their computer."

The real reason people didn't enter the contest was because most people don't have a good enough reason to change. Deep down, they're happy with the way things are now.

Sure, a lot of people talk about making changes, but when it comes time to take action, nothing happens.

But actions speak louder than words.

It’s time to step up and hold yourself accountable.

You can’t depend on others to do that for you.

You have to be honest with yourself.

Are you going to do this or not?

Do you want the freedom and independence you can get by building your own business, or are you happy just to daydream about it?
There’s nothing wrong with daydreaming.

But you have recognize the difference between daydreaming and serious goal setting. Two very, very different things.

So it’s time to take things very seriously.

Here's what you need you to do:
1) Set hard deadlines for finishing a major project in your business.

2) Now cut that deadline by 10%, 25%, or even 50%.

3) Trust me, you’ll find a way to get it done in less time.

One of the most important lessons Tim Ferriss taught us in the 4-Hour Work Week was about “Parkinson’s Law” which states:

“Work expands so as to fill the time available for its completion.”

If we set a deadline for 6-months from now, we’ll meet it.

But if you take that same project and cut the deadline to just 3-months from now, you would still meet it.

You will find a way.

Deadlines make you take action…and bring big rewards when you meet them.

Get serious. Set a tough deadline. And get it done.

I'm off to take my own advice.