10 years ago, I wrote down some thoughts about deadlines and timeframes. A decade of experience later my thoughts on the topic have become more nuanced.
It boils down to two elements: focus and value creation. Deadlines are a forcing function meant to increase the former in order to MVP the latter.
When not arising out of ignorance, deadlines are a great tool to unlock progress.
The situation can change in two scenarios:
- When you're doing something because it aligns with your values, rather than out of obligation/necessity. There's no end state for personal value alignment; it's an ongoing process.
- When exceptional quality or creativity are required outcomes.