Damselfly larvae (Lestes viridis) literally have deadlines, and it stresses them out. As the nights draw in and winter approaches, the remaining larvae in a pond try to complete their life cycle. They accept greater risks: feeding in the face of predation, mobilizing fat reserves and reducing their immune response. Ecological theory supports their strategy. As their deadline nears, the balance of costs and benefits shifts and risky activities become more attractive.

Last Saturday I was mulling these thoughts over with a cup of coffee. My colleague Thomas had just e-mailed me the decision letter for our latest paper and I'd spotted the 'reject' punchline. It was a downer. Although used to the ups and downs of academic publishing, I still find rejection a bitter pill.

Like the larvae, I find my own deadline nearing and cost–benefit balances shifting. Yes, I'm biased, but the paper deserves a good journal. However, I'm also applying for jobs and an assured, fast publication has its attractions. If I had time, I would be realistic but aim high. If I were a damselfly I might aim higher still, accepting more risk. Or I could aim lower and ensure quick publication. I must find the strategy that helps me complete my life cycle. After all, it is an insatiable appetite for papers that usually allows postdocs to metamorphose into stunning professors.