Most people cringe at the thought of having our efforts clasped with the iron chains of an immoveable deadline. Stress and 'freak-outs' are often the results when that line is quickly approaching.
I responded positively to pressure when I was in school. I didn't mind having something hang over my head. It prompted me to focus, and rev up my energies. In fact, when I played competitive basketball, I was the one who wanted the ball at the free throw line with a second left on the clock to win a tied ballgame. However, students and seniors in particular, I wouldn't recommend this cycle of pressure for what comes ahead for you as you move on with your studies and other vocations.
So, what can help? You probably already know, but implementing habits have to be just that, habitual. Automatic. That is what takes the pressure off. That is what helps you accomplish and succeed at meeting deadlines. What will help with developing this habit?
1. Be confident. If it takes more independent research on a topic to feel more comfortable about the knowledge it will take to complete a project then do it. The 'extra' work brings confidence to move on. You'll be prepared to take on something new.
2. Set priorities. If it's important to you, you'll make your work and efforts a priority - which makes it valuable. If it's truly worth it to you, than you'll find a way to obtain it; it may 'cost' you and crimp your social calendar, but if it means something important you'll sacrifice.
3. Plan ahead. If taking a couple hours to organize and lay out a plan to reach a goal, to solidify a strategy to go forward, the reward will pay off. There are tools and research available to help you do this.
Do you see a common thread here for meeting a deadline? Yes, it is your management of time. We waste so much time with whining or fretting about putting in hard work that when we look at the proverbial clock, it's almost midnight and panic sets in. We look around for any excuse possible, even the excuse, "Well, if it can't be perfect I'm not even going to try." But, but, but....get over the flimsy superficial substitutes that you think will make you 'get by' without anyone noticing. They will. And you won't.
It's a sign of maturity and knowing who you are to understand what it takes to give your best. Whether it is with a job right out of high school or college pursuits you must put first your responsibilities for not only yourself but the good of the whole. Bottom line: Is it important enough to you to grow with each successful deadline that is met? Use them to prove not that you can't but that you can!