One needs to see the project through. Perhaps the most critical issue is having the facilities and tools to do the work.
Organize yourself.Write the process on paper and think it through, so that you can workout a sensible approach. Inspect your Vette and categorize a list of items based on whether they are required repairs or wish list. If in the front suspension you see serviceable components (meaning the components can still deliver some more miles before requiring repair), but they could use a repaint, then list that under your wish list. On the other hand, that corroded bake caliper should be categorized under the required repairs list. This will help you stay on track. Also, have a physical record of the steps you have laid out, and as they become accomplished, cross them out. This visual aid will help you see the light at the end of the tunnel.
Taylor your project to the available facilities/tools. The resources available for tools or shop space will determine the extend of your project. For example, I wanted to do a frame-off restoration of Gail, but I did not have a good sized garage, so this perhaps set the fact that my project turned-out to be an On-frame restoration, so this is how the facilities and tools are so critical. The shop tools or equipment available will also alter the process order. So for example, one would perhaps start with the interior if you're waiting to purchase an engine stand and crane, or if your budget at the time does not cover the machine work needed on the engine.
Don't make it a chore. Pace yourself. Work relatively short periods of time. For example, I would not make myself wake-up early on a Saturday, just to wrench away in the garage. I would leisurely awake, eat break fast, plan-out the day with my wife, and if I had some time available to work on the Vette, then I would utilize the time available. Some days I could dedicate the entire day to the Vette; however, I worked it, but took breaks, lunch, and quit for the day at my usual time (4 PM for me). Other times, I felt like stopping what I was working on the Vette, AND I DID! If you find yourself mentally away from the project, then there is no reason to continue at the moment. And if you daytime job happens to be more challenging than usual, then don't make yourself spend time on the project. For me, the project was a way to escape the pressures of my job. If you turn-it into the thing that you hate to do, perhaps it will never be completed.
Research other people's projects. If you want to see the meaning of perseverance and determination, check-out 69MyWay's website. He built Killer and helped build other Vettes. However, Chris would perhaps tell you that Killer was the most challenging project. He has learned a lot of lessons since then, and so perhaps today, Vette projects do not seem as challenging. He has a lot of information from which you can gain. And so do other knowledgeable people here in CAC.
If you really want to do it, then like that famous sport shoe company says -"Just Do It".
GerryLP:cool
once you paint it and get a new top on it and start to drive it you will feel better.
