The blog:
Keeping the Spark: Strategies to Sustain Motivation When Creating a USE-IT Map

Creating a USE-IT map is an exciting yet challenging journey, filled with creative possibilities and meaningful connections. However, anyone who’s taken on this project knows it’s also a path full of hurdles. Teams often start with overwhelming enthusiasm, only to find that maintaining that spark requires ongoing effort. For many, the challenges go beyond just the practicalities of map-making – funding falls through, team members get overwhelmed, or the original purpose can become clouded in the day-to-day big and small life events.

Yet, for teams that have successfully brought their maps to life, each of these challenges became an opportunity to learn and grow. Drawing from their experiences, here are some proven strategies that USE-IT teams across Europe have used to stay engaged and motivated, even through the toughest phases of the process.

Article outline

Breaking the project down into achievable milestones and recognising each milestone, such as finalising a project draft or securing a sponsor, helps the team maintain energy. Teams from cities like Zlin and Wroclaw emphasised how small victories boost morale and create a sense of progress. Without these incremental goals, the project may start to feel overwhelming, with the final goal seemingly out of reach.

2. USE the USE-IT network!

The USE-IT network not only provides practical advice, but also emotional support. Many teams have maintained motivation by connecting with other creators and sharing ideas. Regular interactions with the network can help prevent the isolation that often leads to burnout and remind the team that it is part of something bigger.

3. Keep the creativity flowing

Infusing the project with creative side activities, such as brainstorming promotional ideas, experimenting with map designs or even just planning fun group activities in your favourite spots in the city, can help with maintaining a fresh perspective. Teams like the one in Arnhem found that adding these elements along the way made the work enjoyable. Without these creative opportunities, the project runs the risk of becoming purely task-oriented, which can lower enthusiasm over time.

4. Involving the local community

Cities such as Thessaloniki and Olsztyn drew motivation from the involvement of locals, who shared their favourite places and stories for the map. This not only generated enthusiasm within the community, but also reminded the team of the impact of their project. Without this connection to the community, team members might feel detached from the purpose of their work.

5. Diversify funding sources

Relying on multiple sources of funding, from local and municipal grants to crowdfunding and beyond, can stabilise finances and strengthen commitment to the project. Many cities through time have seen the benefits of this approach. Over-reliance on a single source, however, can be risky: if the funding fails, the team may suffer a serious setback.

6. Maintain open communication with the team

Regular check-ins, a clear division of tasks and role flexibility help to create a supportive and organised team culture. At Zlin, role definition and open communication were key to maintaining motivation and efficiency. Without this structure, team members may feel isolated or overloaded, which can lead to frustration and reduced commitment.

7. Turn challenges into learning moments

When setbacks occur, such as funding rejection or delays, viewing them as learning experiences rather than failures can sustain morale. The Salamanca team, for example, gained valuable insights into local bureaucratic processes through these challenges, which strengthened their strategies for the future. Focusing only on setbacks, on the other hand, can make the team feel discouraged and lose sight of the growth that comes from overcoming obstacles.

8. Reconnect with the project purpose

For long-term projects, it is essential to periodically review the ‘why’. The Prague team, which has been publishing maps for years, attributes its motivation to a clear vision of promoting authentic and sustainable tourism. Without this sense of purpose, everyday tasks may start to seem trivial and the larger mission may take a back seat.

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