Do you have projects that you just can’t seem to get started? I know I do. In fact, I have a lot of writing to do and I like to write, but for some reason I just can’t seem to get started. It is the one thing I put off until “later”. Unfortunately, later is just as busy as right now. Then I find myself up against a deadline and then the quality is not what I wanted it to be. So, how do I change that?

First, is to get in the right mindset. I have to have a good attitude about what it is that I am going to work on. I need to get excited about the creation of the project and its potential outcome. Doing a little brainstorming will help to warm up the situation.

Second, I need to make sure the tools I need are readily available. I purchased a netbook so that I could have a quick-booting machine at my disposal whenever I wanted to sit and type up anything. Well, that netbook has been sitting in its case for months on a shelf. It needs to come out and become a constant companion. So, when I am ready the tools I need are at my fingertips and I don’t have to go in search of the items. Having to gather tools is one of the major road blocks to starting many projects.

Third, is to jump in! Boot up the netbook, grab my notebook with the latest ideas, and just start writing. Setting up my surroundings for success is another useful part of this process. Turn on the background music, fill up the coffee pot, and do a little warm-up stretching. Sometimes this means I also need to grab the netbook and go to the local coffee shop or library. A change of scenery can sometimes help get that project rolling. Look around, is the place where you plan to do your next project energizing? If not, think of another place for it. Sometimes even an unusual spot will be more inspiring. When I was in college, I did a lot of studying in the park under a shade tree in the spring. As the weather is getting nicer and nicer, I dream of being outside – so go there. If that isn’t possible, use it as a project completion or even a step completion reward. When you get your project done or at least a good step within your project, treat yourself to something. Keep the energy up and get the project done. It works.