I’ve noticed that in every solo project I work on, particularly those that require building such as maps or specific models, I tend to lose interest, as I’m not a builder and I find the process quite tedious.
I’ve tried to alternate between tasks, such as switching between building and scripting, in an effort to maintain my interest. However, I find myself completing all the scripting tasks while avoiding the building aspects of the project, which leads me to scrap the project.
Do you have any suggestions on how I can motivate myself to engage more with building on my projects? How do you motivate yourself? Any advice would be highly appreciated.
What works for me is focusing on my strengths when working on a game and keeping the scope of the game small. In your case I would recommend working on something that only needs very simple builds. Don’t make an open-world game, but rather something that takes place on a small map so you’ll have to spend less time building. It will also give you more opportunity to improve your craft. You won’t have to rush your builds because you have less building to do. And it becomes a great opportunity to learn new things.
Some tasks are also easier to do with the right plugins. For example, comparing different types of lighting in your build becomes easier with a plugin that lets you switch between lighting presets. And joining two parts at a corner will be easier with a plugin like ResizeAlign.
Plugins aren’t everything though and I would only recommend installing plugins once you actually have a need for them. The best way to become more comfortable building is to simply practice. You’ll start to develop your own workflows, making the process less tedious!
Just think you build the game for your crush. Jokes aside, (unless…) you can keep things small and simple that can help somewhat. Learning to do too many different things will lead to you not achieving what you want. It a learning process, take hips of times as both topics mentioned are very details and complex on their own. You cant really rush or force yourself when you dont feel like, it’s never good to do so long term. But one thing I think can help motivate you is to learn building with someone else. Honestly, there alot of things I want to talk about but it’s what you truly passion will always win and It’s totally normal. Really, there is no magic switch you can find to make you motivate about things you dont like. Regardless, wish you the best.
This is far too vague and open, and way too unattainable of a goal.
Try instead,
To-do:
Single door
Double door
Window frame
Be specific, and set your expectations on-par with what you’re capable of. It’s a lot more rewarding having a measurement of your progress, and motivates you to keep ticking off the list.
Working on a project for yourself has no set deadline or payout. Taking commissions is simple, you do exactly what you’re told, and you get an instant reward. Working to complete an entire game can take years, and the whole while you’re not getting any satisfaction in terms of acknowledgement, success or revenue.
For myself personally, it’s as easy as a treat. I set myself a task for the day, even if it is as simple as “make the window frame for a house”, and if I get it I go get a coffee at a local cafe, or make a smoothie - something quantifiable.
I know that practice is key, and I’m looking forward to developing my own workflows as I gain more experience! I’ll definitely look into some plugins that could help the building process. Thanks!
Thanks for your reply! You’re absolutely right, it’s a learning process and rushing or forcing myself won’t do any good, so I’ll try to do my best and start small and simple.
Thank you for your advice! Breaking down tasks into smaller, more manageable parts is a great idea. I can see how it would be more rewarding to tick off specific tasks from the list, and it would certainly give a clearer sense of progress. I love your idea of treating yourself after completing a task. It’s a simple yet effective way to stay motivated. I’ll definitely try that out. Thanks again for your suggestions!
