Turning Your Side Project Into Something Bigger
We all have those side projects that spark our imagination—a game idea that feels like the next big thing, a plugin we’re sure will transform workflows, or an art piece that could inspire an entire creative universe. Whether you take on these projects to sharpen your skills, build your portfolio, or simply for the joy of creation, there’s often a small voice whispering, “What if this becomes something bigger?”
I know that feeling all too well. Every time I start a side project, there’s a flicker of hope that it could grow into something meaningful, maybe even groundbreaking. But here’s the hard truth I’ve come to realize after years of working on game projects, both big and small: dreaming is not enough.
The Missing Ingredient
So, what separates the side projects that remain tucked away in a prototype folder from those that evolve into success stories? I’ve spent a lot of time reflecting on this, comparing my own experiences with those of successful small and large teams. The answer, in its simplest form, is this: long-term planning and clear goals.
It might seem obvious, but the difference is stark. Most of us start personal projects out of passion or curiosity—we want to try something new, experiment, or just tinker. While that spontaneity is a great spark, it rarely sustains the long journey from idea to completion.
In contrast, successful projects often begin with purpose. Teams or individuals behind these projects don’t just throw things together and hope for the best. They think ahead, outlining what they’re aiming for, why it matters, and how they’ll get there.
Learning From the Day Job
Think about how things work at a professional studio or company. When you show up to work, you don’t wonder, “What should I do today?” Instead, your time is planned. There’s a clear roadmap, and every task ties into a larger goal. There’s also space for reflection—what’s been working, what hasn’t, and what needs adjusting.
This kind of structure might sound restrictive for a side project, but it’s actually liberating. It ensures your energy is spent moving closer to something tangible rather than spinning in circles.
Taking Your Project Seriously
I’ve learned that the more organized and structured you are with your personal projects, the more likely they’ll reach their full potential. This doesn’t mean you need to mimic corporate bureaucracy, but a little planning goes a long way. Here are a few questions I’ve found helpful:
What’s the ultimate goal of this project?
What does success look like?
What’s the next small step I can take to move closer to that goal?
How can I regularly assess progress and adjust course?
From Prototype to Success
Every personal project has the potential to become something bigger. That game prototype could turn out to be unexpectedly fun. That plugin might solve a problem no one else has tackled yet. That piece of art could set the tone for a groundbreaking new IP. But without a plan, that potential often stays unrealized.
If you’re anything like me, you have a graveyard of half-finished ideas stored away on your hard drive. Looking back, I can see a common thread: those projects lacked structure, goals, or the consistency to carry them through.
The Takeaway
Side projects are a wonderful way to explore your creativity and grow your skills. But if you want to turn them into something more, treat them with the same respect and seriousness you would a professional endeavor. Dream big, but don’t stop there—set goals, plan ahead, and work consistently toward them.
Because with the right mindset and approach, your next big success doesn’t have to stay in the prototype folder. It could be the thing that changes everything.
