Optimizing Your Side Project Portfolio: The Ideal Number for Maximum Efficiency and Enjoyment
It's often beneficial to have a variety of side projects both professionally and personally. However, the key is to manage them effectively so that you maximize your efficiency and enjoyment. Here's a guide to finding the optimal number of side projects to keep you productive and satisfied.
Understanding the Dynamics of Side Projects
Side projects, whether professional or personal, often require significant focus and effort. The reality is that you can only actively work on one project at a time. This is particularly true when your main professional duties take precedence. While some companies may allow 'side project' time, it's generally not advisable to allocate this time if your main projects need urgent attention.
Side projects are designed to provide filler work when you're not as busy with primary tasks. However, they can also experience periods of inactivity. This is why maintaining a prioritized to-do list or backlog is crucial. By doing so, you can manage your projects more effectively and ensure that you always have the next most important task at hand.
The Right Number of Side Projects for Best Throughput
The ideal number of side projects depends on the nature of these projects and your daily workload. Most experts agree that having one long-term project and one or two short-term projects is a good balance. The long-term project serves as a main focus, while the short-term projects are there to keep you busy and engaged when you're waiting for other tasks to be completed.
For example, if you're developing a new product and waiting for certain parts to come in, a short-term project like updating documentation or conducting research can keep you productive. This method helps you stay engaged without overwhelming yourself with too many tasks.
However, the number of side projects that you can effectively manage also depends on your personal preferences and the project's nature. Some people prefer to focus on a single project until it's complete, while others find it enjoyable to work on multiple projects simultaneously. If you're working on your own projects, do what works best for you, but always ensure that your current projects are on track.
Companies Supporting Side Projects
Notably, some companies like 3M and Google are well-known for encouraging and supporting side projects. This culture fosters innovation and creativity, leading to numerous breakthroughs and improvements. In these environments, employees have the freedom to work on personal projects, which often enrich their professional lives and skills.
For instance, Google's 20% time policy, which allows employees to spend a portion of their workweek on personal projects, has led to the development of popular products like Gmail and AdSense. Similarly, 3M encourages employees to spend 15% of their time on personal projects, resulting in innovations such as Post-It notes.
Striking the Balance for Maximum Enjoyment and Efficiency
While focusing on the ideal number of side projects is important for efficiency, it's equally crucial to consider your personal enjoyment. The best number of side projects for maximizing enjoyment is likely to be lower. Some people thrive by working on multiple projects simultaneously, while others find it more satisfying to focus on a single task until it's complete.
The downside of adding too many side projects is the potential loss of focus and efficiency. If you're unable to work on your existing projects and have a significant amount of time available, then additional side projects might be feasible. However, if you're already stretched thin, it's better to focus on what you can realistically handle.
Consider the activities you engage in outside your primary projects. For instance, if you have a side project of painting your house, the weather might affect your ability to work on it. Therefore, it's wise to choose side projects that can be pursued during specific conditions, such as indoor painting or writing.
Additionally, manage the timing of your side projects. For example, if you have a noisy power tool project, ensure you work during hours when it's allowed in your residential area.
In conclusion, finding the ideal number of side projects is a personal and situational matter. By prioritizing your tasks, managing your workload, and considering your preferences, you can optimize your side project portfolio for both maximum efficiency and enjoyment.
Remember, the key is balance. Whether you're working on one major project or several smaller ones, always aim to maximize your productivity and satisfaction in all your endeavors.