Starting up a new business is not easy. There are seemingly a million tasks to do, and unfortunately there is not a one-size-fits-all manual.
After being involved in two start-ups, I do know one secret to success. And it’s very simple, yet quite difficult for a lot of people (myself included) to apply on a consistent basis. Here it is:
Take one step at a time.
Sounds easy enough, right? The problem is, when faced with a huge undertaking, it’s really tempting to get pulled in many directions simultaneously. The result is that you look busy, and feel busy, but nothing ever seems to get completed. Before you know it, you are behind schedule, off on wild tangents, losing money, losing energy and getting more frustrated by the day.
The trick is to slow down…and map out what you need to focus on and accomplish. Be very specific. Then figure out all the next action steps. Write them down, or put them in your Getting Things Done
This article is a fine example. I have stressed out about how to get more done, and felt pressure to write more frequently. And finally I realized it isn’t going to happen until I shut out the noise, make a plan and stick to it. Writing more articles starts with this one.
I hope you will commit to getting the things done that matter most to you this year!
Feel free to leave a comment on how you overcome distractions, self doubt and other hurdles in order to achieve your goals.
Photo credit: Jantik
January 6th, 2009 at 3:02 am
Hi Brandon! You said it right when you mentioned GTD and pointed at the book on Amazon. That one book changed my entire office and workflow around. I'm now constantly organized and know what I should be working on.
I still get distracted, but that's the constant challenge of working on the Internet. At least now I know when I am wasting time.
January 7th, 2009 at 2:36 am
Corey, you are a great example of someone who "gets things done." I was encouraged that you made your podcast happen last month; it is not easy to tackle something like that while you are running a successful business (and during the holidays, no less). I was glad to be part of the first show!
January 10th, 2009 at 7:46 am
Hey Brandon… You may not remember me, but I have met you several times through out the creative community. My name is Kara Hollinger and I have been involved with AIGA for years and am a close friend of James Sack. I had lunch with him this week and he told me of your new site, and I have been reading it all day!
WOW. I greatly appreciate your articles, as I can relate to all of them. I recently parted from Corder Philips as their art director, and opened up my own studio and loving it. Check out my site at http://www.karahollinger.com.All of your articles on start-ups are very well written, and are great points to make.
The comments above about being pulled into too many directions and before you know it, you are behind schedule, off on wild tangents, losing money, losing energy, etc. You took the words right out of my mouth. I am getting the GTD book immediately. I feel like to start out, networking is key. With that, is everyone wants something for nothing. Before you know it, your schedule is full and no $ to show for it. Your comment on a board in front of my computer is a great way to keep on track and I am doing it today.
I would love to meet up with you one day and see what you are up to. Obviously, I am a bit behind. Now that I own my own business, maybe we can find a way to work together one day. Sorry for the long email – but I love what you are doing!!!! Congratulations on the new chapter.
January 11th, 2009 at 2:19 am
Kara,
So nice to hear from you! I am glad to hear about your bold move to start a new design firm of your own. You are very talented and will do well.
"Everyone wants something for nothing"–this is so true! It is very hard to establish credibility while at the same time getting compensated for your time. At some point, you have to set limits and get ruthless, or people will take advantage (some without even realizing it).
Best of luck, and I look forward to hearing more about your new venture!