One of the biggest challenges artists (and producers) face is choosing between the scores of great ideas we have on a daily basis. If you're anything like me, you can't resist diving into a shiny new idea. After all, it's bright and sparkly and filled with limitless possibilities. But if you're not careful, you can quickly end up with piles of barely begun projects which can lead to stagnation and frustration.
That's where the Big D of Discipline comes into play. Truth time. Discipline has never been one of my strong suits. I often need a taskmaster to keep me on track and in the absence of said master, I'll wile away my hours dabbling with whatever idea tickles my fancy while perusing fashion blogs and watching General Hospital reruns. As a function of discipline, focus is one of the most important tools in your toolbox.
When the lure of a shiny new project is beckoning you, consult your mission statement and ask yourself the following questions:
If you answered 'yes' more than you answered 'no,' go for it. Figure out how you can make it happen without seriously depleting yourself, creating stress or hindering your current projects. If you answered 'no' more often, perhaps it's not the best time for you to take on a new project. And remember, sometimes a 'no' is really a 'not right now.'
I highly recommend keeping a running log of projects that you'd love to tackle just as soon as you get the time and/or connections you need. By keeping a list of 'In the Very Near Future' projects, you'll always have a clear idea of what's coming up next for you. A list helps you stay focused without feeling like you're stifling your creativity. It's a win-win!
What tricks do you use to help stay focused? Don't be shy, pony up in the comments below!
That's where the Big D of Discipline comes into play. Truth time. Discipline has never been one of my strong suits. I often need a taskmaster to keep me on track and in the absence of said master, I'll wile away my hours dabbling with whatever idea tickles my fancy while perusing fashion blogs and watching General Hospital reruns. As a function of discipline, focus is one of the most important tools in your toolbox.
When the lure of a shiny new project is beckoning you, consult your mission statement and ask yourself the following questions:
- Is this project in line with my vision?
- Will this project get me closer to my goals for the week/month/year?
- Will I be more fulfilled by taking on this project right now?
- Do I have the resources necessary to make it a success? If not, is there someone who can provide or connect me with those resources?
- Is there real value in pursuing this project over my current commitments?
If you answered 'yes' more than you answered 'no,' go for it. Figure out how you can make it happen without seriously depleting yourself, creating stress or hindering your current projects. If you answered 'no' more often, perhaps it's not the best time for you to take on a new project. And remember, sometimes a 'no' is really a 'not right now.'
I highly recommend keeping a running log of projects that you'd love to tackle just as soon as you get the time and/or connections you need. By keeping a list of 'In the Very Near Future' projects, you'll always have a clear idea of what's coming up next for you. A list helps you stay focused without feeling like you're stifling your creativity. It's a win-win!
What tricks do you use to help stay focused? Don't be shy, pony up in the comments below!
I just started trying out The Pomodoro Technique and a a few other concepts detailed at the linked below..http://heydave.org/post/26770221775/my-productivity-system
ReplyDeleteI've heard good things about Pomodoro. Please let me know how it works for you!
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