Simplify your work process
Instructions
- Clarify your desired outcome.
Before working on any project, visualize your desired outcome so you’ll know how best to accomplish it. Remember to be as specific as possible during your visualization process and set only achievable goals. - Break your work down into smaller steps.
To avoid being overwhelmed by the scale of a project, break it down into smaller achievable steps you can take even with little to no motivation. This will also help you prevent procrastinating on the project. - Identify the steps that add the most value to your work.
Let’s say you’re preparing a presentation. The work feels daunting because you want to add extravagant details such as videos, professional graphics, and data pages. Instead of getting bogged down with unnecessary embellishments, ask yourself, “What are the minimum steps I can take to complete this project?” Write them down. - Eliminate all unnecessary or complicated steps.
Once you’ve written down only the most necessary steps for your presentation, ignore everything that doesn’t add value to your audience. Now you can focus on completing your work! - Start your work by generating a small burst of energy.
If you want to accomplish a large goal, focus on generating a microburst of motivation in the early stages of the project. For example, if you have to write a large report to your boss, first get a pen and paper and spend 10 minutes just drafting an outline. Unlike typing a document, a pen and paper leave you with no excuses. Use those 10 minutes to build energy and confidence to get it done. - Focus on progress rather than perfection.
If you’re struggling to start or progress with a project because you’re worried about not making it “perfect,” immediately eliminate that thought. Focusing on perfection will only hinder your progress, so just start without thinking about it. If you want to launch a product, for example, make a prototype first and then only make improvements after the product is released. If you're a writer, start by writing whatever comes to mind and then make the necessary edits. After all, editing an ‘ugly draft’ is easier than a ‘blank draft.’ - Celebrate your learning process.
Let’s say you’re learning to play tennis, but you keep hitting the ball into the net. Instead of criticizing and shaming yourself, celebrate the fact that you’re taking the time to practice. Be proud that you’re learning from each mistake and improving over time.
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