If achieving business deadlines is challenging for you or other team members and you want to improve, focus on a more flexible and adaptable approach.

Unforeseen circumstances erase time, making deadlines obsolete. As a business owner, you must be aware of such possibilities or events and adjust accordingly. Don’t wait; hoping to catch up. It rarely happens. Be proactive and open lines of communication with everyone impacted, especially your clients. Renegotiate timelines as required. You’ll be surprised how forgiving people are when you’re open, honest and give them time to reconsider.

Business deadlines can be friends and foes, depending on the information you receive from those involved and your ability to manage the process.