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Random behavior will get you random results. Systematic behavior will get you predictable results.

Measuring success requires a goal, targets, and a plan/process. If all three are fixed, then you have a chance of learning how to improve.

There is no point in doing everything but what the plan/process called for, and hoping to improve. If you don’t agree, then speak up. If you don’t speak up, you need to follow the plan in letter and spirit.

When result don’t turn out the way you expected, the first thing to look for is whether the plan/process was followed. There is no point in blaming external circumstances if you don’t follow what is under your control.

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Early in my career, my bosses asked me, “Why did you not meet your deadline?” Being very sure about myself, I offered some variation of the answers below:

• The task was too easy, so I let my guard down. The task turned out to be more difficult than I expected.
• I was too busy with numerous tasks, and overcommitted without thinking.
• I don’t care, you need me, I am indispensable.
• I never agreed with the deadline in the first place.
• I never agreed with you as a person. No, I was not passive aggressive, I have valid reasons for not believing in you.

This line of thinking is career limiting.

Meeting deadlines is a sign of two traits: ability to plan and reliability. Find a way to set a deadline that is realistic, ask for help in planning, ask for help to remove barriers to performance, reset expectations in a timely manner, and consistently meet your deadlines.