Many people often underestimate the time it takes to complete a project because perceptions of available time, abilities and any potential roadblocks are greatly skewed, according to Harvard Business Review. It is a phenomenon called the “planning fallacy,” and it happens to professionals at all levels and in every occupation.
Following are ways to set more realistic targets for yourself and meet deadlines.
- Be objective, not subjective. Consider the time and effort similar tasks have required in the past or remove your own biases by asking a colleague to help with the estimate.
- Commit early and publicly. Tell someone when you expect to complete the task. This external commitment pressure and accountability will prevent you from leaving all your work to the last minute.
- Schedule buffer time. Things come up, and you may need more time. Take your original estimate and increase it by 25% to be more realistic.
- Assume the worst. Identify any potential roadblocks so you can create a backup plan.
