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Getting Caught Up On Genealogy Projects           Published Monthly
Lesson 036...                                                                                                            2018 10 01

Defining The Problem...
If only this were simple to define...
But there is a double meaning to this months title!

First, we have the issue that we always seem to "get behind" on the things we'd like to accomplish.
Then there's the matter of becoming too wrapped up within one area while another falls apart!

Each can be expressed as "Getting Caught Up", whether by longterm or momentary issue.
One causes us stress, while the other misleads with a false sense of advancement.

Having lots to do, in order to achieve a desired point of relief can be stressful.
The workload to get us to that point is usually greater than our normal "comfort-zone".
Additionally, the rest of the project is probably still "growing" and in need of attention as well!

The second meaning of this months lesson title is a polite way of saying we have become obsessed!
Other items sometimes then fall by the wayside as we try to make repairs within a given area.
Being overly-engrossed in one area can lead to "Getting Caught Up" again elsewhere.


How Did That Happen?...
Which came first.. The chicken or the egg?
While all things are relative, one thing is certain... The given area is important to us.
The decision to work the wrong area for too long is the initial culprit and affects the entire project.

Self-imposed timelines (w/Unrealistic expectations) and timetables contribute to the feeling as well.
If a timeline begins to take over, shortcuts are usually taken, only to be filled in later.
In practice we may not connect new arrivals due to the missing data.

This missing data is now the next phase in a slowdown of the overall project.
Not only will it take the same time for keystrokes, but also adds time for re-opening of files.
Adding to that is the inability to add new members, which then inhibits their new connections as well!

While the actual "motus operandi" can be any of several means, the end is always the same result.
Methods include segment completions, non-progress/stuck, or even good-progress/can't stop!
There are certainly other justifications, but these three are the basic underlying roots.


What's Being Done To Fix This?...
It's up to each of us to streamline our own projects, improve efficiency and to fix our own delays.
Recognizing stallout is one way that enables us to keep time management running well.
Pre-planning is another means that can be used effectively as a safeguard.

Timelines and timeframes are sometimes mis-interpreted.
For genealogy purposes, they should not be viewed as "done by".
Instead, think more in terms of weekly or monthly "allocated timeframes".

Some informational portions may be of significant time investment and take several weeks.
It's natural to become lackluster about it and to look forward to "the next phase".
Weekly timetables can help prevent productivity losses from monotony.

Stallout can happen unexpectedly and sometimes go undetected.
Becoming too dependant on a singular research method invites copycat failures.
Being accustomed to methods that "always worked" blocks us from options that "work better".

It's difficult to curb productivity when you're "in the zone", but the other portions need time as well.
The overall advancement of your family tree should move along as a team, not individuals.
Giving yourself rules and guidlines to follow will help keep you well seasoned.


What Can We Do About The Missing Data?...
For the purposes of this genealogy lesson, the missing data is not an issue.
By scheduling our time more productively, we work toward building a better family tree.
This is the foremost item that we have control over, and can affect our entire genealogy research.

Locating/inserting the missing data will continue pace at the next scheduled timeframe for its type.
Eventually a well rounded tree will form, as opposed to one that excels in only some areas.
Data reported evenly is far more reliable than continuous insertion to random areas.

By knowing and working within our boundaries we might avoid the feeling that monotony brings.
Recognizing the point at which productivity dwindles can be measured several ways.
Limit by numerical totals, hours or days (A week may be too long).

Develop a system for your usual research places/methods.
Learn to use them quickly and in a very specific order (Effective ones first).
When resolved to doing generic online searches, try unknown websites-RECOGNIZE FAILURE!!


What Did We Learn From This?...
Timelines should not be thought of as deadlines.
Building a genealogy/family history tree is about accuracy.
Just as a real family is built upon its predecessors, so is their story.

Stallouts will happen, we can only gather so much information before it does.
Recognizing it at the onset can help to avoid hours or even days of wasted time!
Having a routine/plan that you work through for each member cuts that to a minimum.

We all have limitations, and they're different for everybody.
Devising a plan to keep you within yours is not an embarrassment.
Good planning can help keep you from wasting valuable time spent elsewise.

We're not always going to find what we're looking for.
Simply move on, but leave yourself a "to-do list" for future reference.
Info may not be under a certain name or place, be publicised yet, or not even exist!

Finding a new un-ending supply of information is exciting but the time must come from somewhere.
Use only the allocated timeframe, mark the place you have to leave off and return later.
The entire family tree needs your time for it to function as it should.


The Basic Rules...
First...
Build an effective time management plan that has realistic expectations.
Know your limitations and develop a plan to work within them.

Second...
Move the tree ahead collectively as a team. Stay on schedule.
There's a difference between timelines and deadlines.

Third...
Learn to accept defeat and move on gracefully.
We won't find it all...


As always...
What you'll choose to do with this information is up to you.
It will at least serve as a stepping stone for further knowledge.
You should be applauded for your willingness to educate yourself.

These are only basic guidelines, and can always be adjusted to suit your personal needs or budget.
Hopefully the knowledge gained here will help you to be better positioned as a family historian!

      Happy searches!!

        Massachusetts

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