Projects have ups / downs
As someone commented on the last post (hat tip: DS), there are definitely low points on any project. The life of a project is not a straight line. If it involves people and expectations, there will be drama.
that’s okay. . .
As Seth Godin is apt to mention (paraphrase), if the work is worth doing, it will be hard and there will be dips. Grit. It’s the difficult parts that create value. As I tell my students, no one will pay you $200K-$300K for easy work. Consultants, lawyers, and professional attract their client’s problems.
Love this graphic
This made me chuckle. I saw this graphic in Austin Kleon’s Steal Like an Artist (affiliate link). The book is filled with equally witty graphs and bits of wisdom. You don’t need to be a lifetime consultant to appreciate the truthfulness of this adventure. Austin’s blog here.
This is the best idea ever
Isn’t this the truth? Everyone is happy and optimistic. Happy. Giddy. Glad to have the business. Eager to show the new client the great work.
Okay, this is harder than I thought
Unaware of the potential difficulties, hidden agendas, entrenched personalities. Reality starts to hit very early on.
This is going to take some work
Hmm, okay, no worries. We will adjust the plan. It’ll still be easy – just some minor tweaks.
This sucks and is boring
No worries. I am not afraid of work. Just gotta motivate my team. Manage some client expectations and not run out of time on the project.
It’ll be good to finish because I’ll learn something for next time
Okay, I just need to check my attitude at the door. It’ll be okay. A little data-entry never killed anyone. Some extra reformatting never killed anyone. We’ll make it work.
It’s done, and it sucks, but not as bad as I thought
Okay, getting a little tired here. Feeling a little beat down. Might need to apologize to some people for being overly grumpy. Whew. Project is over. Client is happy (enough). Not the cleanest project finish – but still proud of the work. Time to say good bye.
Note: Someone once told me that the success in sales requires lower highs, and higher lows. Believe there is some good wisdom there. Cannot be happy/sad/happy/sad/happy/sad. That will drive you (and your family and friends) crazy. It’s Monday friends – do good work. Keep learning and have fun.
Truth!
Tons of wisdom in one little graphic.
Agreed.
This is so true! Currently on the second last point!
Keep pushing. Almost there.