I am just about to embark on my first project to show off on my site, but before I do I need to remind myself of the two things I need to do to make sure my projects are successful.

Remember the purpose of the project

If you’ve been involved in planning any project, you’ve probably experienced “feature creep”. Feature creep is the ongoing expansion or addition of new features in a product or event. If left unchecked, you can find yourself stressing out over unnecessary features until your hair falls out, your purpose is lost and you give up on the project.

Keep on track by remembering the purpose of the project. Write down the project’s mission statement or purpose and keep it in a place where it’s hard to miss. Staple it to your forehead, write it in permanent marker on your arm. Just keep it somewhere so that you can always be reminded to ask “Does what I’m doing contribute to the purpose of the project?”

Basic skills are important

It doesn’t matter what you’re doing, it’s important to know the basics. You can’t score a goal in hockey without being able to skate. You can’t write a cool new program if you don’t know the syntax of the language. It’s important to learn the basics of whatever it is you’re doing. They’re called the basics for a reason!

Always keep the basics in mind as well. Even if you’re comfortable with your skills and you’re trying to do something new and improved, the basics will help you. Keep the basic knowledge of your craft nearby.

These 2 things will improve your chances of completing a successful project… or at least that’s the idea. Good luck!