Now that I’m back from maternity leave, I’m feeling enthusiastic about continuing to develop my game. I started by checking the project documents and adjusting the timeline. Originally, when planning the game, I wanted to give myself an efficient start with quite an ambitious schedule. Now, with more knowledge of each of the parts involved, I’m able to rethink my hours.

One of the areas where I can save time is in modelling and programming. I sometimes find myself getting caught up in trying to solve a programming problem that doesn’t need to be addressed yet, modelling a 3D-asset way too precisely or testing code or graphic elements without first evaluating my objectives. This means that I need to dedicate more time to making sure my objectives remain SMART as the project evolves.

That said there are aspects of the process where I’m comfortable with being flexible with my time. In the past, I’ve worked hard to meet client deadlines and have often been forced to find areas where I felt I could sacrifice quality for time. This has sometimes made me feel stressed during the development process and even a little dissatisfied with the end result.

By contrast, making the game is a comprehensive personal project, including learning new skills, and I’m happy to work with a flexible critical path to make sure I have enough time to study and just as importantly, enjoy the process of making the game.

I’m eager to see the game ready and share it to the world, things are going forward, and I’m in a good place!