I have an addition…an addition to taking on too much. My eyes are too big for my schedule or energy level. I am greedy about checking items off my To Do list. I want to do everything. I want it all!
I have the expectation that everything I work on will be easy and exhilarating. When the tasks get too mundane or too difficult, I look for an escape route. So, the next shiny idea that pops into my head is my ticket out of this uncomfortable spot.
Over the years I have come to realize that having the shotgun approach to projects is less effective than being strategic about it. Taking on too much can cause the following:
- Having many unfinished projects (another distraction in itself)
- Having your focus and attention fragmented and scattered
- Increasing the risk of forgetting an important date or detail
- Increasing the chance for making mistakes
- Adding more stress to your life
My tendency to take on too much is rooted in two beliefs:
- My worth is tied to how much I can accomplish each day.
- I don’t want to have to choose what’s important.
Jessica Abel, in her book Growing Gills, recommends sticking with one project for 6 weeks and commit to working on that project solely during that time. This approach is great for larger projects. Because I have a day job and am exceptionally good at taking on too much, I find working on one main creative task per week works best for me. For instance, last week I set the goal of finishing a new card design. I could not take on any new projects until the card was finished. I was able to complete new card design and post it on my Zazzle store. This week my goal is writing this blog post.
I’m not saying this new targeted approach is easy because it is so-so tempting to follow my impulses and veer off course. I have to be more aware of when I am eyeing another project and be more disciplined in redirecting that desire and creative energy back to my current project.
I also hate having to choose between my creative darlings. However, when I give all me ideas and tasks the same weight of importance, then I become a plate spinner just working on one project long enough before having to jump to the next. So, I have developed a few strategies to help me stick to one project at a time.
When I write up my To Do list, I also put a priority letter next to the task. “A”s are for the most important tasks, “B”s are for the medium important ones and “C”s are the least important. Having the priority letter next to the item on my To Do list reminds me of what is important and helps keep me on track of my goal for the week.
And when I go to the art supply store, I only buy what I need for my current project. Because I know that if I buy supplies for another project, then I will feel more compelled to work on that project instead. Did I mention I have an addition?
By following these strategies, I am planting myself in the present and stopping myself from jumping to the future. I am making a conscious choice where I put my attention and energy.
Remember, it’s also about enjoying the journey, not just crossing the finish line. If you are rushing around and juggling too many things, it will take longer to complete things and you will miss out on the joys of being in the creative zone. So, take a deep breath, get centered, and focus your attention one project, one task at a time.