Keeping the pipeline filled up!

Having constantly something to do, everyday, like advancing or bringing to fruition a project starts by first placing it into our “task pipeline”. If we fail to do so, we’ll end up with nothing to do, and even worse, nothing ready when we absolutely need it. Momentum doesn't just come from motivation—it’s built by habit, structure, and clarity. 

The “task pipeline” concept is powerful, and it requires us to think systemically. Let’s explore how it should work. As much as possible, I try to plan ahead and avoid letting projects or tasks pile up, without my deciding on them and dropping them into my pipeline. I avoid procrastinating and don’t let the seed of an idea or a project idle for too long outside of the fertile and resilient environment that my pipeline is. It begins with placing only tasks that belong there and need this nurturing space. 

That filtering process takes into consideration the task’s impact, urgency, and alignment with our broader goals. It’s not much different than tending a veggie garden like I do. In addition, we must review these projects regularly and update them, based upon ideas, opportunities, surprises and unexpected changes. Using a system, either digitally or on paper is also critical to track what’s inside our pipeline. Its contents must also be broken into progressive “mini victories” instead of vague goals like “just finish the project”. 

This way it can turn into a much more detailed plan that is reviewed and iterated frequently. Pipelines stagnate when we forget and stop refining them. We must end each week with a short reflection: What moved forward? What stalled? What shifted in priority? This practice gives some life and rhythm to our strategy. Of course, we must leave room for the unforeseen, as an overly rigid pipeline can blow up when bad surprises show up along the way. Let’s remember to build slack or “open blocks” into our days to absorb unexpected tasks or spontaneous creativity. 

Good luck with creating and maintaining your own “task pipelines” if you haven’t already done so!