Beginning a long term project is tricky. You have a lot to juggle, and it is hard to plan so far in advance. Learning this skill will not only make sure your project is on track, but it will also teach you a great skill you can use for vacation planning, college applications, and future long-term goals. 

Brainstorming

• Let’s get specific about your project’s big goal and when you want it up and running smoothly. Using the template as a guide, define the project’s end goal and deadline.
• Next, break down that big goal into smaller, doable chunks (what we will call “milestones”). Think about the main activities you want to do.
• Then, using the guiding questions, add more manageable smaller tasks. Use the guiding questions to help you brainstorm.
  • What are the main activities you want to do?
    • Do you need to buy anything?
    • Do you need to put any fundraisers together?
  • Do you need to design something?
  • Are there any permissions that you need from someone in charge?
    • Where will it take place?
    • How will people get there?
    • Do the dates conflict with other activities?
  • Is there any marketing you plan to do?
  • How are you going to pay for everything?
• Give each milestone a nickname or number.
• Share your milestones and tasks with your mentor or guide.  When with them, discuss the following:
  • Are there any milestones missing?
  • Are the individual tasks for each milestone broken down sufficiently? Is there any task you are missing?
  • How long will each task take to complete?

Creating a Plan

• Independently or with your mentor, working backward from your final goal deadlines, setting deadlines for each task based on how long they will take to complete. Don’t forget that vacation time can either be a great moment to advance on your project or time to spend with friends/family, depending on what you prefer!
• In your phone, input the deadlines as events into your calendar. Add reminders too, about one week in advance, so you stay on top of what’s coming up.
  • Remember, plans can change, and that’s okay! Stay flexible, check in, and adjust as needed. Sometimes a task takes an unexpected turn, delaying its completion, or maybe your project will pivot and that fundraising event you envisioned will be canceled. It’s all part of the journey.
• Lastly, independently, come up with a way that you can celebrate achieving your milestones! You could go out for ice cream, share your success with a family member, treat yourself to a workout class, or even post about it on social media! Do something that will make you happy and PROUD!
• Post your project plan on the path so your guides can help guide and check in on your progress.

To continue, return to Module 5 Opportunity Card.