Sara Torpey • November 12, 2024

How to Actually GET TO Those New Things You Want to DO!

How to Carve Out Time for New Projects: A Guide for Busy Entrepreneurs

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the thought of adding something new to your already packed schedule? I see you, and you’re not alone. Many of us struggle to find the time to do things that we don’t already have time carved out to do – especially as entrepreneurs. In this blog post, we’re going to talk through effective strategies to help you carve out time for whatever new projects you have had sitting around on the shelf that you just can’t seem to get to.


To listen to this content rather than read it, you can click play in the player above or listen on Apple Podcasts (or your favorite platform!)


Or watch on YouTube here.

Understanding the Challenge: Why It's Hard to Start New Things

The struggle to find time for new projects often boils down to a few key factors:


1. Overwhelming Expectations


When you think about starting something new, it can feel like you need to clear your calendar entirely to make it happen. This overwhelming feeling can lead to procrastination and feeling that you’ll never actually get around to starting (or finishing).



2. Fear of Change


Our brains are wired to resist change, even when that change is positive. New projects can bring out feelings of fear and uncertainty, making it difficult to take the first step – even when we’re excited about the new thing.


3. Follow-Through Anxiety


Many people experience "fear of follow-through." This includes worries about not succeeding or being embarrassed if things don’t go as planned. And fear of success is ALSO a part of this, sometimes the fear of what might happen if you succeed can be just as paralyzing as worry about something not working out.

 Strategies to Carve Out Time for New Projects 

Now that we understand the challenges, let's look at practical strategies to overcome them and make time for your new projects.


1. Start Small: Embrace Bite-Sized Tasks


One of the most effective ways to tackle new projects is to break them down into bite-sized tasks. Instead of trying to find hours at a time, commit to just 10 or 20 minutes. Yes, it feels small – but small progress is better than no progress, and sometimes all we need to feel is just a little bit of success to start moving. For example, if you want to create an Etsy store, start by spending 20 minutes researching other shops or gathering materials.


2. Be Kind to Yourself


We are typically our own worst critics. And while no one wants to hear this – least of all me! – it really does matter that we practice self-compassion when we don’t meet our expectations. If you planned to spend 30 minutes on a project but only managed 10, celebrate that effort instead of focusing on what you didn’t accomplish. Recognize that progress is still progress, and that the trend is upward – even when you’re not going at the pace you’d like.


3. Create a Schedule that Works for You


Identify specific times in your week when you can dedicate a few uninterrupted minutes to your new project. For me, for example, Monday mornings are a great time to get started before the week gets busy.


*If you'd like some questions to help you as you think about where and how to find the time you want, check out this post about creating a workday you LOVE.


4. Build Accountability


Sharing your goals with others can be a powerful motivator. Talk to friends, family, or colleagues about your new project. Having someone check in on your progress can encourage you to stay on track. Consider finding an accountability buddy who is also pursuing something new.


5. Reward Yourself


This one is the one that helps me MOST! Reward yourself for completing tasks (and for also taking breaks!). For instance, if you spend 30 minutes working on your project, treat yourself to something enjoyable afterward, like reading a book or taking a walk.


6. Practice Patience


New projects take time, and it’s important to set kind expectations for your progress. Instead of expecting everything to be completed quickly (because you know we’re all SO impatient!), allow yourself the space to grow into the project over time. Acknowledge that it’s okay for things to unfold gradually.


7. Consider Coaching


Sometimes, having a coach can make a world of difference in your progress. A coach can provide strategies, accountability, and support to help you move forward efficiently, help you see blind spots and gaps you don’t see yourself, and provide shortcuts from their experience that will make yours simpler. If you're interested in this kind of support, consider seeking out coaching services tailored to your needs. If coaching together would be of help to you, find a time to connect here.


Conclusion: Making Time for What Matters

Finding time for new projects doesn’t have to be an insurmountable challenge. By adopting a mindset of kindness, breaking tasks into manageable pieces, and building a support system, you can carve out the time you want to grow into whatever projects you’ve had on the back burner.

For more tools, tips, and ideas on how to manage time, energy, and projects as you grow a thriving business, come join my free FB group, UNComplicating Business for Teachers, Helpers, and Givers!

Join UNComplicating Business on FB

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