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We’ve all had to rush work projects before. While it’s possible to complete a task quickly and efficiently, many of us are unable to work quickly and meticulously. This can result in corners being cut and mistakes being made that may not be identified (especially if you don’t have time to check your work). All in all, your client could end up being delivered a sub-par product or service. If they’re not happy, they could leave a negative review or demand compensation. This could make it all for nothing.

Having to rush also isn’t good for our stress levels. Chronic stress is the biggest killer - by being able to work slowly and methodically, you can reduce stress in your life and fend off future health problems such as heart disease and strokes.

How to stop rushing projects

Want to put an end to rushed projects? There are many things that can be done to prevent rushing.

Set realistic deadlines

Before agreeing to complete a project by a certain time, you should consider whether it’s a goal that you can realistically aim for without having to cut corners. Many companies try to please their clients by agreeing to extremely tight deadlines. Unless it’s an emergency situation, there’s no good reason to do this - give yourself the time you need by agreeing to an appropriate deadline.

Get started early

The start of a project may be delayed if you already have other projects on the go. Ideally, you want to get started as soon as possible so that you can give yourself more time to tackle some of the biggest initial problems. This could give you more time to research into strategies and acquire tools you may need later on so that it’s not a mad rush later. 

Identify bottlenecks

Bottlenecks are parts of a project in which work slows down. This can throw a project off schedule, leading to rushing later on. Try to identify these bottlenecks early and redistribute resources in order to more easily manage them (this could include delegating more people to deal with the bottleneck).

Make permanent fixes (not temporary ones)

Temporary fixes to problems could come back to haunt you later on. This is a big cause of technology debt, which can lead to tech problems and challenges building up later on, which can lead to an unexpected increase in workload. You can find tips on managing technology debt here. One way to reduce technology debt is to pour energy into permanent fixes instead of temporary ones so that the problem is fully dealt with. 

Reduce interruptions/distractions

Too many interruptions and distractions could throw you off schedule, leading to a mad rush later on in order to get back on schedule. Try to reduce interruptions and distractions wherever possible. Some companies take steps such as outsourcing phone answering services to reduce interruptions from incoming calls, as well as investing in backup wi-fi and back-up power generator to reduce interruptions caused by internet connection loss or power cuts. 

Automate what you can

Many tasks can now be carried automatically by software or robots. Automation can help to speed up work while maintaining accurate results. Consider ways in which your work may be able to benefit from this. 

Don’t be afraid to extend the deadline (where possible)

Some deadlines cannot be adjusted. However, others may have a degree of flexibility providing that you warn the client early. If there are big doubts as to whether you’re able to finish the project on time, consider asking to extend the deadline. Being able to take things slowly could allow you to complete the project to a good standard instead of having to present something that is rushed and most likely flawed.