Struggling to Finish What We Started

Have you ever given thought to the reason why so many of us start projects and never finish them? If this is you, you’re not alone. Turns out there are a multitude of reasons why crossing the finish line is more difficult for some people than others.

This topic, of course, was motivated by that exact thing. Yes, I’m guilty of it too. My problem is that I usually bite off more than I can chew. Turns out that in most cases it’s a harmless thing; however it often gives us (us - meaning the general population) undeserved anxiety.

Let’s begin with starting a new hobby. It’s a novelty; something that you know you can do because such and such can do it, or you watched a video of it and it’s the coolest thing ever. The newness of it makes it exciting and you feel as if you’re starting a new adventure. Then, after a couple days of giving it all your attention, you come up against an obstacle, or you’ve run out of money for more supplies. You face some sort of challenge. Those obstacles and challenges dampen down the euphoria you had when first beginning the project.

Moving forward might be difficult if you’re doubting the next step. Maybe you’re stuck not knowing what’s next. Is it possible that you’re not enjoying it like you thought you would? Even though you know the finished product is achievable and you’d love to have the bragging rights, the next step is hard to make.

You’re not alone. Everyone can think of a time when they started something they didn’t finish, for whatever reason. It’s OKAY!!

If you’re up to it, I’ll roll through a couple helpful suggestions that might help you be a little more choosy about your next hobby or project.

1. Be realistic. Give a little thought to whether the project is really your cup of tea. Hold off digging into it until you’ve had some time to process what you want the end game to look like.
2. Set goals. Rome wasn’t built in a day and it’s unrealistic for you to think that any project can be completed too quickly, especially if you’ve never done anything like it before. Clear, realistic, achievable goals help keep you on track. Write them on a calendar and give them details. This might help you set a timeline that matches the scope of the project.
3. What is your why? Is there a particular reason you chose this project? Maybe you wanted to make something special for your mom for her birthday. If it helps write your why down too. Put it on the calendar along with your timeline.

Setting unrealistic goals will make you push yourself to fail, but there is a better way!  Give yourself a good, strong foundation and some of the other things will make more sense.

It is possible that the project you picked just wasn’t the one for you, and it’s okay to search for the one that is for you, however, if you just pause, and think it through, make sure you have your why, and set realistic goals, you can finish any of those projects you’ve dreamed of. Good luck!