How to Break Through the Project Plateau

Beginning a new project is like the start of spring— you're full of energy and enthusiasm.

The possibilities and potential seem endless.

Then as you move past the starting phase, you feel a shift.  

You hit a point where it feels like the joy and excitement are evaporating. 

Now you find yourself stuck in a slump midway through. 

This notorious progress-killer is called the "Project Plateau." But you don't have to be its next victim.

The question is, how do you break through this plateau?

There have been many times when I found myself neck-deep in half-finished projects. 

It wasn't until I sat down to examine this pattern that I found a way to break the cycle. I broke my projects into smaller tasks and rewarded myself when I finished them. This helped me get back my enthusiasm and finish my projects.

I've started many new projects with my content business, each one being the "next big thing." But as I plowed through, I found myself abandoning these projects. 

I'd lose enthusiasm when I entered the dreaded "middle phase."

Does this sound familiar?

The Problem

There's a thrill that comes from beginning something new. But when that initial excitement wears off, we often hit a plateau. 

Tasks become mundane, progress slows, and we begin to wonder if this project is worth continuing. 

When you're stuck in this plateau, you're not just grappling with a dip in motivation. 

You're entangled in a web of emotions—frustration, confusion, and even guilt for not pushing through. This emotional load saps your energy, making it even harder to move forward.

Studies, like one from the University of Vermont, have consistently shown a drop in interest levels at the mid-point of tasks, regardless of their nature. It's a universal issue affecting everyone, from students to CEOs.

Studies also show that our brains are wired to seek novelty. 

Research published in the Journal of Behavioral Decision-Making found that new experiences stimulate the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. 

This can explain why starting a project is so invigorating, but it doesn't help us push through when the going gets tough.

The Emotional Rollercoaster

When you get to the Project Plateau, it's common to feel frustrated, unmotivated, and anxious.

When you feel discouraged, you might give up on projects and not finish them.

Here's how to tackle this problem head-on:

Recognize the Pattern

At the beginning of a project, your energy and motivation are sky-high. 

Every task feels new and exciting. 

The trouble starts when you reach the middle part. All a sudden, the tasks start feeling repetitive. Your spirit goes down, and it feels like the finish line is really far away.

The first step in overcoming the plateau is identifying it. 

It sounds simple, but awareness is the first step to any form of change. Knowing you're in a rut allows you to take corrective action. If you can identify that you're hitting a plateau, you can take steps to move past it.

It also helps to be aware that this is a natural part of the process.  When you expect this, you can prepare for it and break through it when it comes.  

Small Wins

The human brain loves rewards and pursuing a goal.

So why not hack your brain? 

Set up a mini-reward system for reaching specific milestones. It could be as simple as a coffee treat or an episode of your favorite show.

Break down your project into smaller, manageable tasks. Completing these will give you the momentum to keep going.

Celebrate Milestones

No matter how small, celebrate your achievements. Whether it's finishing part of your project or sticking to your schedule for a week.

Connect with Your Why

Remind yourself why you started this project in the first place. Revisiting your initial motivation can be a powerful driving force.

Journaling

Start a journal documenting your emotional state at different project phases. This will help you recognize patterns and prepare for future slumps. 

Accountability 

Have a friend or mentor to hold you accountable. The pressure of someone else's expectations can often propel us forward.

In Conclusion

The Project Plateau is a phase, not a permanent roadblock. 

It may be a hurdle, but it's one you can clear. To overcome a slump and make your project successful, first acknowledge the problem. Also pay attention to your emotions.

Then, take concrete steps to address these.

If you're aware, plan, and stay motivated, you can overcome this plateau and succeed.

Until next time,

Josh Ford