Spring Projects: Planning for Success
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Spring is a time of renewal, for people and nature. Some do a big clean, while others start a new project. Cleaning is one of the easier projects to take on in terms of structure (if not execution!), but even that might benefit from a little planning out to make sure you’re ready to tackle it.
So what are the best ways to start a new project? Grab a pencil and paper and carve out some time to brainstorm – studies show that planning increases the odds of completion of projects.
Here’s 5 steps to help you complete any project:
1) List your materials / draw up your plan. If you are making a treehouse, make sure you have some idea about what it will look like so you know what you will need to build it. If you’re spring cleaning, make sure you have all the cleaners, scrubbies, and gloves you need.
2) Make sure you have your materials at hand, make a list of anything you need to buy or borrow. Missing that saw for your treehouse, or a steam cleaner for the couch cushions? Think about who you might know who has them, or if you can rent these items.
3) Carve out time to do the project and enlist helpers if you need them. Most people are happy to help you with a well-defined project in turn for a helping hand with their own work, or even a good meal.
4) Set up your working area / materials / tools. Like a professional chef does with ingredients, you want to have your “mise-en-place” all in place before you begin – it will save you time and that frustrated wander through the garage looking for “that wrench”.
5) Set a timer – projects can often get derailed by simple things like you forget to take a snack break and then you find yourself spiralling down into brain fog due to low blood sugar. Make sure to stay hydrated too – working outside in the sun can dehydrate you faster than being indoors.
Not sure that you’re up for all this planning? Check out this article to further encourage you.
What do you think? Does planning your project out well help you achieve it? Let me know in the comments or on Facebook.
