Complete your next project
Here I am looking into the eyes of my sweet pup deliberately procrastinating the thought of starting my next project. I’ve jotted down some notes and thoughts but I’m still at the “how do I start” phase. Like most project go-getters we go through this time and time again. Sometimes we get over the mental block and just start but other projects may take longer.
Glancing at my empty screen I began to reflect. Looking back at past projects I began to recognize an outline of steps to follow. The cloud over my head lifted and I felt a peace come over me as I concluded, heck I can do this. I mapped out the steps that would be necessary to confidently get started and that I could follow for any project facing me ahead. Now with a roadmap for myself, I want to help you reach that same confidence.
Let me outline for you these simple, effective, and detailed steps to get you on the road to your next project, big or small. And, if you ever feel hopeless looking towards your project, come back to the outline and follow your way through. Remember projects are just like running a race, it takes one step at a time to get to the finish line.
How to outline & complete your next project.
Step 1: Identify your objective
In this section, you will be stating your overall objective. Identify a specific result that you’re aiming to achieve within a time frame and with available resources.
Some questions to ask yourself:
What type of project is this? Is this a product, download, an event?
Who is your target market?
State your objective
What do you want it to look like at the end of it?
Step 2: Make a plan
Write out simple directions to accomplish your objective, that you can refer to often, as your project develops.
Envision the outcome of the objective.
Create a list of steps needed to complete the project.
Step 3: Set up deadlines for each critical step in your plan
What is the timeframe for the completion of the project?
Add approximate deadlines for various steps.
Is production or manufacturing involved?
Ordering materials
Licenses, dues, permits, sums of money….
Seasonal items
Step 4: Break down the plan
Complete the details for items and deadlines listed in your plan
Who
What
When
Where
You may need to obtain quotes and prices for various items
Step 5: Alert anyone involved
Make a list of all parties of interest including their contact information
Office phone (direct line preferably)
Cell phone
Address
Emails
Best time to be reached
Alternate Contact
Always follow up keeping everyone updated and informed.
At this time you are now closer than you’ve been to get your project started. Be sure to make a list of anyone who will need to be notified and who will help with this project.
Step 6: Implement
Go for it! Use this outline for creating and preparing your next project confidently and boldly.