How to Stay Motivated on a Project

Keeping yourself motivated during a project can be incredibly difficult. I’ve struggled to do just that and have worked really hard to achieve results despite crippling fears including imposter syndrome. Through YouTube Brand Collaborations and Commercial Video Clients I’ve had many projects that have tested my limits. The following tips have helped me understand the importance of motivation:

Maintain a Good Attitude
It is crucial to surround yourself with people who possess a positive attitude when working on a project. When you collaborate with people who have a good attitude, they bring a sense of optimism, enthusiasm, and teamwork. They are more likely to approach challenges with an open mind and contribute constructively to the project's overall success. Also remember to maintain a positive attitude yourself.

Remember Your “Why”
When starting a project, you probably have an idea of why you’re doing it. Holding on to that thought in tough moments can make all the difference. There have been tons of moments when I’ve wanted to bow out of a project but most of the time, whatever was stressing me out ended up seeming so much smaller than my “why", I finished the project and was so much better for it. Which brings me to my next point

Understand Your Pain Points
If there is a task that typically causes a lot of stress or it’s something you dread doing like me with cutting down A-roll, figure out a way to get through it enjoyably or delegate it if you can. Once I realized what my bottle-neck was, I was able to delegate cutting down my talking heads to my wife who happened to enjoy it. She was also really fast and it started doubling the amount of videos I was able to produce. I would film A-roll, she would edit it while I filmed B-roll and then we would both finish at around the same time, making 1 video production per day extremely doable AND enjoyable!

Plan Out Your Project Timeline
Creating a comprehensive project timeline helps with organizing tasks, setting priorities, and ensuring a smooth workflow. It allows you to estimate the time required for each step, identify critical deadlines, and allocate resources effectively. I honestly hated this part for a really long time. I wanted to just let my creative process flow but in order to build something real, I had to be consistent which I would not be able to do if I allowed my creativity to guide me. I need structure. I build structure backwards meaning I start with the deadline. Then I backtrack to how long I would need between delivering the first draft and the final draft, and on and on taking into consideration how many days I’d need to film and when I have shoots I can work into the project.

Take Time To Rest
While it is essential to work diligently on a project, it is equally crucial to prioritize rest. Resting is not a sign of laziness. It actually helps clear both the mind and body. Taking breaks helps reduce stress, prevents burnout, and enhances creativity.

Try Something New/Be flexible
To avoid falling into a monotonous routine during a project, it is important to embrace new ideas and be open to trying different approaches. Innovation and creativity flourish when you step out of your comfort zone and explore unfamiliar territories. Being flexible and adaptable allows you to adjust to challenges, seize unforeseen opportunities, and find alternative solutions. By staying open-minded, you expand your skill set, enhance problem-solving abilities, and foster a more dynamic and engaging working environment.

Have Fun
Despite the seriousness and focus required in a project, it is crucial to remember to have fun along the way. Engaging in enjoyable activities, fostering a positive work atmosphere, and celebrating milestones can significantly boost team morale and motivation. Having fun not only increases overall satisfaction but also allows for more creative thinking and collaboration. It creates a sense of camaraderie, reduces stress, and ultimately leads to a more successful and fulfilling project experience.