Stumped? Here’s two questions to ask that will get you back on track towards what you’re working for.
What’s the main goal behind what I’m doing or making?
What’s the message you’re trying to get across? What does this thing you’re making or doing need to do, and why?
Start with the main idea, and then build around it. All roots grow from the same tree. Every essay has a main idea, supported by 2-4+ sub-ideas, each built around their own sub-ideas, etc.
A runner for example can run to get in better shape, and everything they do (how they train, how they eat, etc) can be built around that main goal: To get in better shape.
What’s my next step?
Once you understand your primary objective, this can better frame the 2nd question: What is the very next you need to do to move ahead? There’s a bunch of things you probably need to do. But there’s only one next step.
- For runners, it’s typically literal: Taking the next step and going on that run.
- For that five paragraph essay, you need to write the next sentence, even if it’s the first part of an outline of all those main points.
- For that tree to grow, get it (or seeds) in the soil and get some water on it.
Knowing what you’re working towards, and knowing what to do next, are the keys to getting and staying in motion towards what you want.