A recent survey asked executives and managers what caused them the most stress in their day-to-day work lives. Not surprisingly, deadlines topped the list with E-mail overload not far behind. Our research shows that tight deadlines are very often self imposed and unrealistic. Tight deadlines lead to unbalanced and unnecessarily stressful days. Here's a couple of tips to help you avoid the deadline dilemma:

1. If your first thought is 'I can deliver this by Friday'-make the promise for Monday or even Tuesday. You'll keep your commitment if you deliver on Monday, and look like a hero if you come through on the Friday!
   
   
2. Add 20-25% more time for completion to every activity you plan-this will help you plan a realistic workload for each day. Next month we'll give you tips to help with your overloaded inbox!