As we close out 2023 and reflect upon what worked and what didn’t, let’s determine what project management habits we’re not taking into 2024.  Removing inefficient or harmful practices creates space for new and better ways of working as well as career growth. With that spirit of reflection and growth in mind, here are some project management habits worth leaving behind in 2023:

1. Micromanagement

Micromanaging can be detrimental to both team morale and productivity. Instead of fostering trust, it often leads to frustration and stifles creativity. Effective project managers recognize they cannot and should not control every minor detail or decision. In 2024, strive to empower your team by providing clear expectations and then trust their skills and expertise by allowing them the autonomy to execute tasks. Provide guidance and leadership at a higher level. Trusting your team members to deliver results not only boosts their confidence but also enhances overall project efficiency. Your team will be happier and more likely to do great work.

2. Poor Communication

Effective communication – frequent, proactive, and clear communication – is the cornerstone of successful project management. Leaving behind poor communication habits means embracing transparency, clarity, and active listening. In the coming year, prioritize regular and open communication with your team and stakeholders. Respond to others’ queries promptly, hold regular meaningful meetings and provide details and context behind pending decisions.  Utilize project management tools to streamline communication processes and ensure that everyone is on the same page throughout the project lifecycle.

3. Ignoring Risks

Ignoring potential risks is a risky habit itself. In 2024, make risk management a proactive part of your project planning. Identify potential risks early on, assess their impact, and develop strategies to mitigate or address them. This approach not only minimizes the impact of unforeseen challenges but also demonstrates your commitment to delivering successful projects.

4. Lack of Flexibility

Don’t be fooled, just because you’re doing Agile doesn’t mean you are flexible.  Rigid project plans can crumble in the face of unexpected changes. Or, you may be the one crumbling if you’re too zealous with the way things are done.  Embrace flexibility in 2024 by building adaptability into your project management approach. If you haven’t already, consider agile methodologies that allow for iterative development and adjustments based on real-time feedback. This way, your team can respond more effectively to changing project requirements or unforeseen obstacles.  Also, understand that sometimes thinking outside the box is just the thing to get you out of that pickle.

5. Inadequate Stakeholder Engagement

Stakeholder engagement is crucial for project success. Leaving behind the habit of inadequate stakeholder involvement means actively seeking and incorporating stakeholder input throughout the project. Don’t just go through the motions, actively engage and respond to their needs.  Regularly communicate project updates, gather feedback, and ensure that stakeholders feel part of the decision-making process. This approach fosters a collaborative environment and increases the likelihood of project success.

6. Neglecting Team Development

A skilled and motivated team is essential for project success. In 2024, prioritize team development by investing in training and skill-building opportunities. Identify areas where your team can enhance their capabilities and provide the necessary resources for continuous improvement. This commitment not only benefits individual team members but also contributes to the overall success of your projects.

7. Overlooking Lessons Learned

Projects provide valuable learning opportunities. Leaving behind the habit of overlooking lessons learned means actively reviewing past projects to identify successes and areas for improvement. What’s worse than making the same mistakes over and over again? Create a culture of continuous improvement by documenting lessons learned and applying them to future projects. This iterative approach enhances the effectiveness of your project management practices over time.

8. Failure to Set Clear Goals

Unclear project goals can lead to confusion and project drift. In 2024, commit to setting clear and SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals for your projects. Ensure that all team members understand the project\’s objectives and how their contributions contribute to the overall success. Clear goals provide a roadmap for the team and increase the likelihood of delivering successful outcomes.

9. Not Seeking Feedback

An inability or reluctance to seek out or act upon constructive feedback can significantly hinder how you grow as a leader and project manager. No matter how experienced you are, there is always more to learn. Solicit informal feedback during one-on-one meetings with your direct reports. Conduct an anonymous project feedback survey at least once a year. Discuss improvement opportunities with your boss during review cycles. You might hear hard, but valuable truths. Be willing to accept feedback with humility and grace whether positive or negative. Use it to get better.

What other bad habits do you need to retire heading into 2024? Neglecting risks, lacking stakeholder engagement, failing to learn, stunted team growth, and fuzzy goals and measures all hold your projects back. Nurture trust, foster clear communication, evolve as a thoughtful leader, and leave those detrimental habits behind. Your projects and your team will be better for it.

Here’s to your success in 2024!