I Messed Up a Work Deadline. Here's What It Taught Me.

Originally shared on LinkedIn, 2025. Updated and expanded for the blog.

I messed up a work deadline this week.

Not going to lie, I was annoyed with myself. I pride myself on organization, knowing what's next, and keeping things moving. Thankfully, I had our deadline a month too early and not too late.

After a few deep breaths and some reflection, here's what it taught me:

First, I'm human. My life is always scheduled chaos between just two of my many responsibilities: working full-time and raising five kids ranging from ages one to seventeen. It's okay to have all of it together 100% of the time and every day it's 100% acceptable to give yourself some grace.

Second, co-workers can make or break your spirit. Our team had pulled together and completed all we needed in time for the actual deadline. I am so fortunate that they laughed with me. They could have been upset or annoyed just like I had been with myself, but instead they took it as an opportunity to make the project even better now that we had another month before the real deadline.

Third, I needed a reset. This mess up reminded me that I don't have to go 100 mph all day, every day. When I'm worn out, I'm less patient, act more abruptly to check things off the list, and miss things I normally would not have. I needed to slow down and take some time to get myself back into a positive mindset.

To anyone who messed up this week: it's okay. Don't dwell on it. Reflect and grow from it.