Your Ultimate Checklist for Starting Any Project

So, you have a new idea. A new task. A new "project."

Maybe it’s launching a new website, planning a corporate event, or even just revamping your company's social media strategy. The beginning of a project is a thrilling mix of potential and pure chaos. Where do you even begin? What do you do first?

To get your project started right, we've put together this project kickoff checklist. It breaks down the essential steps every single project needs, so you can stop feeling overwhelmed and start feeling in control.

Let's dive in.

1. Define Your "Why"

Before you write a single to-do list item, you need to know why you're doing this. What is the main goal? Is it to increase sales by 10%? To streamline a process? To impress your boss? Your "why" is your North Star—it guides every decision you make and keeps the team focused when things get tough.

• Action Step: Write one sentence that clearly states the main goal.

2. Identify Your People

No project succeeds alone. Take a moment to think about everyone who has a stake in this project. This isn't just your team; it's your boss, your clients, and any other department that might be affected. Knowing who they are and what they care about is the secret to a smooth project kickoff.

• Action Step: List all the key team members and anyone else who needs to be kept in the loop.

3. Set Your Scope (What's In & Out)

This is arguably the most important step for avoiding "scope creep" (the dreaded moment when a small project turns into a monster). Clearly define what the project will deliver, and just as importantly, what it won't. Be specific!

• Action Step: In a short paragraph, outline the boundaries of your project.

4. Find a Project Owner

Every project needs a leader, someone who is ultimately responsible for its success. This person doesn't have to do all the work, but they need to be the one to make decisions, clear roadblocks, and keep the team on track.

• Action Step: Assign a clear leader for the project.

5. Name Your Milestones

A project is a journey, not a single destination. What are the key checkpoints or big achievements you need to hit along the way? Think of these as a series of mini-finish lines that lead to the final goal.

• Action Step: Name 3-5 major milestones and assign a tentative date for each.

Ready to get started?

This checklist is the perfect first step for starting a new project, but we know turning a list into a real project plan can be a challenge.

That’s why we created a tool to help you do it instantly.

Free Goals & Milestones Planner!

Download Now

It’s the exact tool you need to turn these checklist items into an actionable plan.

Want to take your project management to the next level?

If you're ready to turn your plan into a formal, professional project, our Project Management Kickstart Kit includes the four essential templates you need to manage your entire project from start to finish.

Explore the Full Kit Here