Think Like a NASA Engineer (For Better Focus) Here’s what you can borrow from the way NASA engineers operate: 1. Break your big goal into micro-milestones NASA never treats something massive like “land a spacecraft on Titan” as a single task. Instead, each objective gets translated into specific, doable steps—testing a sensor, approving a design, running a simulation. You can apply this by dividing any overwhelming project into clear chunks. If you’re writing a report, step one might be “outline key sections.” If you’re decluttering, maybe it’s “sort out the junk drawer.” Clarity makes everything less intimidating. 2. Keep a daily ‘mission progress’ log NASA teams don’t just track what’s left to do. They log every small accomplishment, building a record of forward movement. Try this for yourself: at the end of each day, jot down three things you completed. Seeing progress—instead of just a to-do list—gives you a sense of momentum that keeps you engaged for the long haul. 3. Review and refine your plan, weekly NASA’s mission design isn’t “set and forget.” They regularly review what’s working, what needs adjustment, and where to pivot. Give yourself the same professional courtesy: take 15 minutes every week to look back on what helped you stay focused, what created friction, and how you might adjust your plan. A minor tweak beats persistence in the wrong direction. Want a practical starting point? Pick one project and split it into five tiny steps you can finish this week. Mark each one off as you go. Notice how tackling small wins can change your momentum. | 
