I've always been a huge fan of deadlines. I think they're a great tool for speeding up the production process and/or overcoming creative block and avoiding procrastination.

As of recent, I've been toying with the idea of not using deadlines at all, partly because I think it introduces unnecessary creative pressure and detracts from the process.

I think there are pros and cons to both approaches:

Using a deadline means:

• You work faster and (generally) finish more music
• You place pressure on yourself (good and bad)

Not having a deadline means:

• You can get in flow more easily due to a lack of pressure
• You enjoy the process more
• It's easy to go overboard and tweak endlessly/never finish anything

I'm curious to hear your thoughts - do you use deadlines? If so, why? If not... why not?

1. Be consistent

It's tempting to do all-nighters and act like a hero, but you truly progress when you make music day in and day out. Produce in a consistent manner, even if it's just for an hour per day.

2. Deconstruct

Professional writers deconstruct novels and articles. Professional painters deconstruct and analyze art. Music producers should deconstruct professionally made music: study the arrangement, listen to what sounds are being used and how they interact with each other, etc.

3. Read more

A lot of music producers are averse to reading books. I believe this is a product of the age we're living in.

YouTube tutorials are fantastic, but books give you a deep understanding of concepts and help you think. Read books on technical aspects of production like music theory and mixing as well as books on creativity and psychology.