Try this formula, tell them: - I've noticed (a sincere observation about deadlines) - I'm curious what's happening on your end - Then do something radical: stop talking and actually listen People miss deadlines for all kinds of reasons: - Maybe they're drowning but don't want to look incompetent. - Maybe they have no idea how to estimate time. - Maybe their process involves procrastination and panic. The emotional intelligence move is: creating enough safety that people tell you what's happening before the deadline kicks in. You need to figure out if they need a different workflow, more check-ins or a better system that aligns to their brain & work style. Also it would be worth asking: are your deadlines realistic in the first place?

When someone’s slipping under pressure, I don’t jump straight to performance metrics—I lean into what’s really going on beneath the surface. Patterns like that often signal burnout, overwhelm, something personal, sensitive, or even self-doubt. I start with a conversation—not about the missed deadlines, but about how they’re doing. I ask open questions and listen without filling in the blanks. Most times, what they need isn’t more oversight—it’s clarity, support, or a safe space to reset. From there, we rebuild: realistic timelines, check-ins that feel helpful (not hovering), and clear priorities. It’s about meeting them where they are, not dragging them where I want them to be.

1. Understanding the underlying issues: • Self-awareness • Active listening • Empathy • Identify the root cause 2. Open and empathetic communication: • Initiate a calm conversation • Express concerns clearly • Frame the conversation positively • Encourage open dialogue 3. Setting expectations and providing support: • Reaffirm expectations • Offer assistance • Provide feedback and guidance • Foster a culture of support 4. Monitoring progress and adjusting strategy: • Regular check-ins • Be flexible • Celebrate successes • Document progress

The best of employees go through emotional struggles and other conditions that require a mental health care professional intervention. Healthy teams should be open to talking about mental health and it’s impact of untreated conditions in people's lives.

A team member is missing project deadlines while under pressure. As a project lead, get a understanding of the issue by conducting on the spot observation of the task. Apply coaching and assess the execution of the task. Also, you can attached an experienced team member to assist by mentoring and doing peer to peer coaching. Project leads understands that project success is expected. When a team member is falling short of that goal, get clarity on the situation, and apply a solution.