Life Lists #53 ::

I’ve got a few projects on the go, at the moment. It is really difficult staying on-track, but here is my three tips for staying on-track with creative projects.

1. Define and Schedule Process-Oriented Goals

While a distant, final outcome can be motivating, it can also feel overwhelming. To maintain consistent progress, shift your focus from large, product-oriented goals (e.g., “finish the novel”) to small, manageable, process-oriented tasks (e.g., “write 500 words daily”). The key is to integrate these tasks into your calendar as non-negotiable appointments. This approach transforms abstract ambition into a concrete routine, reducing procrastination and leveraging the compound effect of small, daily efforts. By prioritizing the consistency of the process, the quality and completion of the final product naturally follow.

2. Implement a “Version 1” Mindset

Perfectionism in the early stages is a primary cause of creative stagnation. To counter this, adopt a “Version 1” mindset. Give yourself explicit permission to create a flawed first iteration. The objective of a first draft, a sketch, or a rough mock-up is solely to exist—not to be perfect. This strategy separates the act of creation from the act of critique, allowing uninhibited idea generation. You can refine and edit a subpar draft, but you cannot improve a blank page. Embracing imperfection in the initial phase is the most effective way to maintain forward momentum. Finished is better than perfect.

3. Create a Physical or Digital “Parking Lot” for Ideas

Creative work is often sidetracked by new, exciting ideas or necessary tasks that arise mid-stream. Instead of allowing these to derail your current focus, establish a “parking lot”—a simple list in a notebook or a digital document. When a distracting thought appears, quickly capture it in the parking lot and then immediately return to your scheduled task. This technique serves two purposes: it protects your deep focus on the project at hand, and it creates a valuable repository of ideas and to-dos to review during your next planning session, ensuring nothing is forgotten.

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