Stuck on a Big Hard Programming Task? Read this!
Apr 24th, 2011 | Practices, Productivity, Skills
Sometimes I am stuck on a mind-boggling task. I know this because I found myself fiddling around, giving advises to other people, searching for food, drinking coffee or working on low priority stuff. Clock is ticking but little gets done. After I notice this unfortunate state, I talk with myself seriously – calling to conscience, sense of duty and pride of a man who never fails his mission and the team.
Over the time I have learnt how to return to a productive state and even finish difficult tasks. I want to share my experience here.
Precondition
I assume that you have a good idea what you should build. If not, you have to get back to your notes, client or a drawing board. You definitely will be unproductive if you don’t have clear understanding of your task. Most probably you will waste your time and client’s money.
Now, you know what to do but don’t know how and intellectually overwhelmed by this too big to bite piece!
I recommend 3 phase strategy to conquer your difficult task:
- Hit the road – start moving and build the confidence
- Take control – conquer uncertainty and map the road
- Accelerate – drive on full speed while keeping control Read full post >>
