Here is a framework for thinking about larger projects, the kinds that often take extended periods of time and different sub-projects to complete.
First, figure out the individual “buckets” that need to be filled in order to complete the project. For example, if you’re trying to plan a party, you might need a “Manage the Guest List” bucket, a “Plan the Activities” bucket, a “Purchase Supplies” bucket, etc. The party doesn’t happen unless each bucket gets filled.
The “bucket” system is helpful because it helps you not only organize actions, but it helps you eliminate them. If you think of some activity you feel like you “should” do, you can ask: “What bucket does this help fill?” If you can’t immediately figure out which bucket it is, then you have to ask a second question: “Does that mean I missed a bucket, or does that mean I shouldn’t do this thing?“
(It is very often the latter!)
Next, for each bucket, there are likely barriers. Things in the way of you completing your task of filling that bucket. We’ll call them “rocks,” because they make the bucket feel heavy and full, but they aren’t what you actually need. The “Manage the Guest List” bucket might have a big rock in it labeled “Janet and Bill really don’t get along.” It might have a small rock in it labeled “I don’t have Mirabel’s new phone number.” But these rocks all have to be removed.
It can be tough to figure out which rocks need the most immediate attention, but here’s an easy question: “If I don’t remove this rock, what happens?” It seems obvious, but whenever a task seems like it should be done, we frequently skip that question. Many little pebbles won’t hurt your overall effort, but some of the biggest rocks will completely derail you.
If you start a project by labeling:
- Which buckets need to be filled?
- What activities fill them?
- What rocks need to be removed?
You’re well on your way to staying clear and focused.
The Opportunity Machine 