How to easily finish up old projects

1401 days ago Memory Repository 🧠 blog.memoryrepository.com

Reading time: 2.5 min

I wrote this to share a way to easily finish up old projects. Old projects here refer to commitments that are 'completable' and do not have a strict, external deadline.

  • Assess if the commitment now aligns with your priorities, and you are willing to invest time and effort into completing it.
  • If yes, divide the goal or habit up into the smallest possible microtask, one requiring minimal time and effort.
  • Set a goal to do the bare minimum of the microtask every day (e.g., write ANYTHING, watch ANY amount, etc.).
  • Make it as easy as possible for yourself to get started (e.g., keep the links or relevant equipment on easy access).
  • Systematize it by adding it to your daily reminders, task manager, or calendar.
  • Remind yourself in that reminder/task/calendar event this task is contributing to your goal, and all you have to invest is a minute of your time a day.

This is not the fastest method, but will ensure steady progress towards completion.

It'll work especially well for commitments that are:

  • not inherently enjoyable, and,
  • difficult to make enjoyable.

With minimal commitment and minimal friction, you'll find it easy to get started, and that's