Identify and correct problems before they happen

Before you begin a project, imagine it has been a year and it is a total disaster. What went wrong?
Perhaps the task was not defined clearly enough. Or maybe you didn’t have enough manpower. Discuss this with your team to identify more potential problems.

Make a list of what you need to do to successfully complete your project
For example, you may need to say no to every unrelated obligation for the next month. Or you may need to have weekly check-ins with your supervisor to ensure you’re on the right track.

For each activity on your list, write down the positive version on a card
For example, you could write “I worked on the project for three uninterrupted hours each day this week.”

Keep these cards on your desk
Make sure they’re clearly visible!