How motivated are you?

Aug 26, 2008 | 0 comments |
Since I always talk about motivation, I found this piece really interesting. I think there are times, when we really need the push to get things done. I enjoy reading these blogs for some fresh idea and even seeing how others are doing it.

I particularly liked this one which says: Make a big public commitment. Be fully committed
I got this one from my friend Leo at
Zen Habits, and I love it! He says “this will do the trick every time. Create a blog and announce to the world that you are going to achieve a certain goal by a certain date. Commit yourself to the hilt”. Thanks Leo, you have certainly motivated me Make a big public commitment. Be fully committed.

I liked the article and given the fact that your motivation level needs to be at your all time peak if you are planning to be PM. For people like me, I end up spending more time than necessary at work, to know about the processes, other projects, the roles people play, observe the mistakes and think what I could to do to save the day, if I was the PM. There are times, when I really need an overdose of inspiration to keep me going, to make that extra effort and keep the focus intact.

The toughest think is perhaps when you have co-workers who aren’t very positive or using your communication skills to get the work done without yelling. To restrain from using your power and using it wisely and not unnecessarily is hard. More you do, better you learn.

(Picture: Google Images)

So, what is Project Management?

Aug 25, 2008 | 1 comments |
So, what is Project Management? Ever seen Rachel Ray cook?

30 Minute Meals episodes start with Rachel speaking about what she will be cooking on the show (her deliverables). She talks about (her methodology) how she will start with the pasta and cook her way to the soup.

Once her plans (PM plan) are done and her time set (read 30 minutes), she breaks down her work into manageable tasks (Work break structure)- she carries her sauces and spices (tools), boils, chops and cooks (execution) her dish while keeping her spectators informed (team/stakeholders).

While cooking she verifies her recipe with the requirements she has, e.g. her in-laws like the favor of garlic but doesn’t like to bite into pieces of them. So, after flavoring the oil, she removes them carefully (she knows her clients). 30 minutes later (within time and scope) - she has served in plates and a quick tasting (testing) later, she signs off (end of project).

Now, that was PM for you. Of course in real life projects are a little more complicated than whipping up a tasty dinner! But I hope you got the idea.

So, how do you know that you have the qualities to become a Project Manager? You don’t, I didn’t know I can do it well. Perhaps I’m not even the right person to be discussing it. But what the heck- I’ll share what I have learnt.

Chances are you will flair, if you are-

  • Organized
  • Motivator
  • Creative (handling problems, communication and resources) & Analytic
  • Have the gift of the gab
  • Is calm
  • Can work under pressure
  • Responsible
  • Love new ideas/concepts (software, tools, information)
  • Unbiased leader (Read 10: Unbiased Leadership)

Most importantly you have to love your job and be confident of what you are doing, learn from your seniors and take the extra time to read up.

(Picture : Courtesy Food Network)


Thank You

Aug 19, 2008 | 1 comments |
While I try to learn something new everyday in PM, I would like to thank all my well wishers who stopped by and commented on the blog. It is more than inspirational to have PM's take the time to read my blog and leave a comment and also have it feature in theirs.

Thank you once again to all of you.


(Next article on PM made easy)

So unreal

Aug 18, 2008 | 0 comments |

OMG! Elizabeth Harrin wrote about Stepping into PM in her famous blog A Girl's Guide to Managing Projects .

I read her blog almost everyday at lunch and guess what when I opened the blog today, I couldn't belive my eyes. It's like meeting your favorite movie star. This is amazing.

So, thank you Elizabeth, really.

What have you done recently to become a PM?

Aug 16, 2008 | 2 comments |
I decided to take my exam CAPM (Certified Associate of Project Management) on September 15.

I have been thinking of taking the exam since April and have finally decided to go for it no matter what. After being approved by PMI for the exam, I paid the fees ($300) and scheduled my exam.

Here is my list of the websites that I think is quite helpful in preparing for the exam:
If you are still thinking if this is the right path for you, read Choosing the right work may not be as complicated as you think. It's a great read for everyone thinking about the next course in your life.

If you would like to know more about PM- read one my favorite bloggers Elizabeth Harrin's extract from her new book.