Deadlines

A deadline is a fence on the inside of the perimeter of a prison camp. Anyone who crosses the line will be shot dead.
Fortunately no one shoots writers who miss deadlines, but it is an advantage to be known as someone who always submits on time.
Several years ago I contracted with a publisher to write a workbook on Westward Expansion and I was going to be late late late. It was about half done and I had many more hours of work. I was stressed out over not being able to meet the obligation. At the last second I was saved because the company decided they could not use it. I was never so glad to have had something turned down.
The story I am working on now will be ready at the last minute. I know where I am going with it but I can’t seem to get there.
I like working to a deadline. In this case it may be close but I will finish it on time, because that added pressure gets the sub-conscious working. One morning I will wake up knowing how the story is going to get where it needs to go.