Hello September!  Now that Labor Day is behind us, we tend to buckle down and refocus on things we might have neglected over the Summer. Sometimes they might be projects we have put off because they are too overwhelming to even think about accomplishing.

Did you know that, no matter how large the project might be, you can get it down?  It's true!  All it takes is some planning. The key is to break the project down into smaller manageable pieces and tackle them, one by one, until the entire project is completed.  

I work with so many clients who need assistance with project management.  They just don't know where to begin and the steps it takes to get the job done.  Whether it is decluttering and organizing a room in your home or planning an event, the concept is the same.  

Here are a few steps you can take to accomplish your goal, no matter how large or small:

1. Use a large piece of paper and a large index card.  I like to use a large piece of paper to formulate my ideas and a large index card with lines on one side and blank on the other to list the steps.  I put the name of the project on the blank side of the index card and use the lined side to list the steps necessary to complete the project.  The large piece of paper is where I dump my ideas. They do not need to be in any certain order but they do need to be detailed.  

2. Take some time to think about the steps needed.  Imagine starting at the bottom of a set of stairs and working your way up to the top.  The top is the completion of the project.  What steps do you need to take to reach your goal?  Write them down on the large piece of paper and fill in other steps you need to take, as you go.  No matter how large or small the item, write it down so you don't overlook it. 

3. Number the steps you need to take. Take the large piece of paper with the list of steps you created and put a number on the left side of each, in the order they are to be done.  Once in order, transfer the list to the lined side of the index card.

4. Determine your deadline and work from there.  Take some time to think about a deadline for each of the tasks and how long each task will take. When determining a start date, work backwards from your deadline. This will provide you with sufficient time to get the project completed. Then, determine how long each task will take. This will help you create a time line to work from.  

5. You are now ready to begin your project.  Simply schedule time on a consistent basis to work on your project, step by step.  With a plan to refer to and a time line in which to work, you will be successful in completing your project.  Check off each item as you go, so you can see your progress and enjoy a sense of accomplishment as you move toward completion.

The key to success is breaking any project down into management pieces and planning a strategy for success.

If you are feeling overwhelmed with a project you need to tackle, don't hesitate to contact A Better Space.  We can either meet in person or I can coach you by phone to develop your plan for success.