if it weren't for deadlines, nothing would get done.

I don't know the origin of this quote, but I think where I saw it was in a mailing list recently. However, I can't seem to find it.

Although I can do plenty of things without any pressure (like post answers here), I need a hint of fear to do what I'm supposed to be doing (like my homework).

If it wasn't for the last minute, nothing would get done.

—Supposedly from "Murphy's Laws"; see here

Although I can do plenty of things without any pressure (like post answers here), I need a hint of fear to do what I'm supposed to be doing (like my homework).