Importance of Deadlines: Is Removing Them the Right Choice?
After reading Jessica Winter’s article in The New Yorker, I began reflecting on the importance of deadlines in both education and parenting. Much like how some professors have become too accommodating with students, many parents lower expectations in an attempt to reduce anxiety. But is this truly helpful?
It’s short-sighted when teachers or parents consider basic expectations arbitrary, such as class attendance and deadlines. These expectations aren't about causing stress—they're about providing structure. When adults set guidelines and teach accountability through natural consequences, we’re actually reducing stress by creating predictability and stability.
Structure vs. rigidity
There’s a difference between rigidity and structure. While rigidity can stifle creativity, structure allows for growth. The importance of deadlines lies in their role as guardrails that help people focus on what needs to be done. They are not cruel. Providing structure and holding students accountable for their actions teaches essential life skills, like time management and responsibility, that they’ll need throughout adulthood.
In today’s educational landscape, there's an alarming trend towards leniency. While unforeseen circumstances call for accommodations, these should not become the norm. Allowing a pervasive culture of missed deadlines and lowered expectations is more about seeking popularity than instilling respect and responsibility.
Moving beyond pandemic blame
Blaming the pandemic for today’s issues is an excuse that hinders progress. While COVID-19 may have disrupted education, the root causes of many current problems go much deeper. Educators and parents alike must rise to a higher standard of accountability. We must prioritize teaching respect for deadlines and helping students understand that missing expectations have real-world consequences.
Ultimately, maintaining standards may not always be popular, but popularity should not come at the expense of long-term growth. Just as professors need to uphold deadlines in class, parents must also set clear boundaries and expectations for their children. In doing so, we create an environment where young people can learn, grow, and thrive—one where they are prepared to face the real world with confidence and resilience.
You can read Jessica Winter’s article in The New Yorker here for additional insights.
