It’s worth regularly asking this question for all your projects.
I’m not one for New Year’s Resolutions – my annual resolution is “Keep Going.” But the opposite of a resolution may actually be more worth your time.
There comes a time when every project will run its course. I’m well aware that the time will come when I no longer conduct the Rockford Aces or Shades of Blue. I won’t always oversee the Michigan All-State Choir, I won’t always be Scoutmaster of a Scout troop.
I recommit to each of my projects for as long as they serve my personal missions, my values, and my family. And I don’t know that they serve unless I ask the question. Currently, I have no plans to change any of my main projects, and I know that because I’ve asked, “Should I keep doing this?”
The one projects I keep asking myself about is this daily project. I have published every day since 2014, and when I ask “Should I keep doing this?” about my writing practice, I ask two following questions: first, does it serve my community or myself? and second, am I impeding other projects I want to take on by maintaining this project?
Right now, I’m not changing anything, but I’ll keep asking the questions. Whether New Year’s or not, it’s how I get to my answer. And whether the answer is yes or no, the question helps to make the time spent feel intentional and affirming.
Wishing you an early Happy New Year; take a minute to look at your projects and ask the question!