Only use due dates for real deadlines

Part of ยง My productivity system.

Due dates should mean "this must happen on or by this day." If it doesn't have a real deadline, use labels instead.

When to add a due date

  1. Hard external deadline (FSA enrollment, event prep, filing deadline)
  2. Recurring maintenance with natural cadence (trash day, filter schedules)
  3. Precursor to a task with a due date (order filters before replace filters)

When NOT to add a due date

  • "I'd like to do this soon" โ†’ use next label
  • "This is important" โ†’ use priority or focus label
  • "I want to remember this" โ†’ use weekly label

Why it matters

  • Due dates retain meaning and urgency
  • No "cry wolf" effect from fake deadlines
  • Overdue list stays actionable, not overwhelming

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