Plan Your First Creative Side Project From Scratch

You want to make something creative but you have never done it formally, or you have been away so long it feels like never. This defines the smallest complete thing you could finish, a short story not a novel, then builds a realistic plan around it. Good for absolute beginners and returners who keep meaning to start and never do.

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You want to start a creative side project in [medium or discipline] but have not done anything formally creative before or have been away from it for a long time. You want a realistic plan for getting started.
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<task>
**Step 1: Define the smallest viable project**
What is the smallest complete thing you could make in this medium? A short story rather than a novel. Three paintings rather than an exhibition. Aim for completion within four to eight weeks.

**Step 2: Set a realistic time commitment**
How many hours per week can you genuinely protect for this? Be honest and conservative.

**Step 3: Identify what you need to learn first**
What is the one skill or technique you need to get started? No more than one.

**Step 4: Build accountability**
Who or what will hold you to this? A specific deadline, a partner, or a public commitment.
</task>

<output_format>
- A smallest viable project definition
- A realistic weekly time commitment
- A four to eight week plan with milestones
- One accountability mechanism
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