Are you doing a project or a task?
There is a time for each, but knowing the difference can help with the planning and execution of both. For example, the characteristics of a spring clean make it a bigger project, while daily tasks are gentler, smaller and non-project-based. Read the following descriptions to help you decide which would work best for you at a given time.
Projects (i.e. spring clean):
- Larger-scale
- Project-based (usually consists of a series of tasks in a number of areas)
- Induces a sense of overwhelm if not broken down into smaller tasks and to-dos
- Weather-dependent if it includes yard, balcony or other outside work
- Often takes several days of multi-hour work periods, such as weekends or holiday time
- Can require large, expensive supplies or professionals (e.g., outdoor window cleaning or power washing)
- Can feel and look ‘worse before better’ (cleaning out the garage)
- Induces procrastination if not approached in steps or phases
- Requires more energy
- Can necessitate the need for help from others
Tasks:
- Smaller-scale
- Individual tasks
- Includes daily maintenance or everyday activities
- Can be done in a short period of time
- Are “quick wins” and offer immediate reward (cleaning a bathroom, doing the dishes)
- Only require regular supplies, nothing too extensive or expensive
- Don’t create more mess; they create less mess and usually make a visible difference
- Are less daunting, and therefore, tend to generate less resistance and procrastination
- Can comprise one step or a few individual steps (each step is a complete step in and of itself)
- Can be done by one person and does not require others; some tasks can be done by children.
- The tasks require only small bursts of energy
Some questions to ask yourself when sorting tasks from projects:
- What supplies will I need? (Do I need to order or purchase anything?)
- How long will this take?
- Do I need the help of others?
- Is this a single task, or multiple tasks, steps, or phases?
- Can this task stand alone, or is it part of a larger set of tasks or a project?
- If it is a project, how can it be broken down into smaller sets of tasks and timelines?
- How much time and energy do I currently have?
- Am I on a deadline (selling a house, landscaping)?
Remember to gauge your resources. Life consists of both projects and tasks, but the key to achieving the best outcomes is to distinguish between the two and choose wisely!
Good luck!
Do you have any further tips for tackling projects or tasks?
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