How To Manage Spring Projects

Happy first day of spring, everyone! I’m more of a “winter girl”, but I have to admit, I love the change of seasons, especially spring! It’s like a new beginning and a fresh start. I can’t wait to get outside, take walks, work on the house, the yard (well, maybe), and take some fun trips.  I also want to work on some projects. How about you? Do you have big plans?

 

Sometimes, at the beginning of spring, we get big ideas that can drift away as fast as New Year’s resolutions. This year, I’ve got several things going on with family, the house, and trips we want to take. It’s a lot to get done, all at the same time. So, for me, the best way to manage several projects going on at the same time is to make a written plan. I’ve just made a list of my spring projects and that’s what I want to share with you today. I’ve got some ideas for how you, too, can make a written plan for all your spring projects and make the most of the season.

 

HOW TO MANAGE SEVERAL PROJECTS AT THE SAME TIME

First, you need to simplify everything you’ve got going on. The way I like to do that is by making a huge list, with each project, the start date for each, and the finish date for each. I also include the steps for each project. By writing all this down, you’re getting it out of your head and out in front of you to see each day. Then you don’t have to wonder if you’re forgetting anything, because it’s all written down. For example, your project list could look something like this:

PROJECT	START	FINISH	ACTION STEPS	WHEN
Plan Vacation	04/01/17	04/30/17	Research	04/01/17
			Hotel reservations	04/15/17
			Flight reservations	04/22/17
Remodeling	04/01/17	05/31/17	Research	04/01/17
			Paint	04/22/17
			Buy furniture	04/29/17
			Buy accessories	05/02/17
Yard work	04/01/17	05/25/17	Fertilize and seed	04/02/17
			Plant trees	04/09/17
			Plant flowers	04/15/17
			Clean back porch	05/15/17

This is just an example. The point is that you can have several projects going on at the same time if you keep it all organized. Here’s how:

• After writing down your projects, look at each of your action steps and write them on your calendar. 
• Each day, take a look at your project list and try to work a little on each one, even if it’s just a small step.
• Spread out your action steps, realistically, to leave plenty of time to get them done.
• If you get busy with unexpected things in your life, re-adjust your finish dates.
• Be sure to check things off daily to see your progress.
• To stay motivated, write down the benefit of each project, such as what your ultimate goal is. Example: Family vacation = Family goals, building relationships, making memories.

Make sure you keep your life balanced by making a personal bucket list for the season. I know. I know. You’re thinking your project list is huge and there’s no time for fun. Well, the point of keeping your projects organized is so that you can get it all done and still have time for fun. I’m a big believer in balance and bucket lists.

What do I mean by a personal bucket list? Here are some examples of things that could be on your list:

• Lunch out with family
• Day at the park
• Movie night
• Reading break on the porch
• Coffee with friends
• Date night with hubby

 Here is why you should make a personal bucket list:

• It can be a great reward system for all your hard work on your projects. After making your bucket list, plan on taking a few hours away from your projects to do something fun on your list.
• You won’t get burned out on all the work you’re doing on projects.
• You’ll get to work a little, then play a little. In other words, you will give yourself permission to rest, relax, and recharge.
• You get to take breaks to spend time with family and friends. This keeps all your work in perspective.
• Life is short, so enjoy your spring and summer!

I hope this gives you some ideas for how to get through some projects, now that the warm weather is finally here. Also, remember to go out there and have a great spring/summer season! You’ve worked hard and you deserve it!

Please let me know in the comments below what some of your projects are for this spring. I’d love to hear from you!

Till next time, have a wonderful spring day!