Thread: When do you start something NEW vs. improving the old?

I'm at a kind of crossroads in my business- a non-computer savvy friend has a great idea she wants me to develop with her online.

How has starting new projects impacted your existing work? I have a lot of things that go automatically... but there's always lots of stuff that needs my attention! I'm concerned that if I do start this project I may end up somewhat neglecting what I have...

Thoughts??

There's a few things, for me, that would go into making a decision:
1) Current workload
2) Is there pay involved? Or partnership?
3) Is it worth breaking up your current load?

You've pretty much got to decide what is more important on your list, not hers. I try really hard not mix friends with work. It's just easier that way.

I just made that mistake. I started doing graphics for people now versus tending to my newest website and I need to re-balance everything. I didn't quite expect to get so many jobs so quicky in desgin on top of messing around in contests and designing has taken over way too much time.
I think I just needed to look at what would bring me some quick cash since my cash flow got highly depleted from my newest website. So even though I planned what I thought would be most beneficial (make some cash now) it may not work out that way unless I get more focused!

I am terrible - I will get a new idea, develop a new site and completly neglect all my other sites/ideas. I suppose it depends on the person.

Also, I would be weary about working with friends - I've found that it slows everything down, as every little thing needs to be discussed.

Thanks all, I think it would be really time-consuming to work with a friend, and I ought to turn it down for now...

Originally Posted by Ellen C Braun

Thanks all, I think it would be really time-consuming to work with a friend, and I ought to turn it down for now...

I think that's smart, time is your most precious commodity - to spread yourself too thin might result in everything you are currently working on to suffer.

I have a hard time focusing on one thing at ta time so in my case that would be a narrow line to walk.