The paradox of the "zeroeth" step reminds me that IT projects, like most efforts involving people and ideas, start before they start. Try using the ZS as way to begin leading a project. The zeroeth step is an important reminder that the first step may not be the most important.

The ZS may give you ideas about what to investigate as you prepare yourself to lead the project. It also helps keep you in the picture. It is easy to focus on what management, customers, or your team members want and forget about want you want. It is hard to lead a project when you are not in the picture.

Take The Zeroeth Step
Find a quiet place. Try to put yourself in a reflective state of mind. Ask yourself the following questions. Write the answers in your personal journal. These aren't the only questions. If other questions emerge, answer those too.

What do I hope can happen for me short term and long term in leading this project? This nudges you to explore what would give you some reasons to be excited about the project. If you can't think of anything, find a way to gracefully bow out.

How did this project come to be? This invites you to investigate the history of this project. The seeds of success and failure are there waiting to be discovered.

What concerns me about leading this project? This invites you to explore any worried feelings you may have. For example, this project might be bigger than any you've led or might involve a technology new to you. Your answers aren't necessarily showstoppers. They are risks to be managed.

Who can say No to my project and make it stick? This helps you identify the people in your project community with whom you need to build strong relationships. If you don't know, make a note to find out. You will need their support.

Do It Again
IT projects are organic, like gardens. Gardens require water, sun, nutrients, etc. more than once. Take the ZS as often as you need. If you start to feel overburdened, or like you want to run away and hide, that's a good time to do it.