If you have ever worked a high energy project from beginning to end, there are three basic emotions you are sure to encounter. While two of them are nothing to worry about, one can be particularly dangerous. In the middle of every big project, there is always a slump that can cause depression, unbelief, burnout and other unhealthy symptoms that can threaten the much needed success.

Excitement: The launch of every project or program I have ever worked has been a very exciting time. While there was no shortage of skepticism about risks and obstacles, the excitement has far outweighed the pessimism. Our heads are filled with what can be, and the innovation and creativity that lies ahead. For people that have a proclivity to launch projects, just overcoming the hurdles to get to the kickoff can bring a euphoria.

Doubt: In middle of a program, it is inevitable that reality shows up under a microscope. We are faced with the size, complexity, budgets and even a few in-project failures that begin to zap our creativity and drive. Team members begin to feel overwhelmed with their own workload and, in many cases, blame their feelings on other groups or performers incompetence. This pessimism is a part of every program.

Euphoria: Assuming that our mid-program doubt has not killed us, we get to the end. The launch, the delivery... the finish line. There is a euphoria that kicks in that is sure to drive us in to the next big project or program. Success feels better than failure, there is no questioning that.

If we failed to exit the doubt stage, and fail to exit on multiple projects, it will be harder for us to succeed in the future. So, how do we deal with it? How can we keep ourselves focused and prevent the blues from sinking us?

1. Acceptance: As stated earlier, mid-project doubt is a normal part of every project. Don't let it get you down.
2. Identify Risk: make a list of all the things that are bothering you. Try to take some time every day or every week, as appropriate, to work through one of the big issues or follow up with the person or group responsible for the issue.
3. Review the Risks: Go back through the risk list and evaluate the impact and probability. Sometimes risks take care of themselves. If not, make sure to focus on it as stated in item 2.
4. Get rid of self doubt: You are on the project because you are a contributor. Don't let the slump zap you of our confidence.
5. Change your perspective: Sometimes, working harder is not the answer. Take a break, checkout for a day or two. Read a comic book, watch a season of your favorite TV show, whatever. What you may be in need of is a creative breakthrough. Something new to help you solve your problem and attack from a new perspective.
6. Create opportunities for small victories: If you are a leader, find mini projects that have a medium level of complexity that team members can work on part time. These projects could/should be department or program related to ensure that you are maximizing your yield. Small, targeted innovation projects will provide small victories. Nothing motivates future victories like past victories. Get your team seeing themselves as winners!

If you let the doubt stage overwhelm you, it will be hard to succeed. Work hard, but keep your priorities straight. Stay focused on the end game and don't get distracted by politics and doubt. Success is within reach.