The Ripple Effect - How Finishing Projects Impacts Your Life Positively
Jun 18, 2025
If you’re anything like me, at some time in your life, you’ve started something, but not (yet) finished it. Pretty much everyone has them — those projects we started with excitement, only to set aside when life got busy, or when a new, shinier idea came along. Maybe it’s a half-painted room, a book you were writing, a workout routine you meant to stick with, or even a hobby you once loved. Whatever the case, unfinished projects can quietly pile up, taking up mental space and energy, without us even realizing it.
But here’s the thing — finishing what you start feels amazing! It’s not just about getting things done; it’s about clearing your mind, feeling accomplished, and creating space for new opportunities. (I’m in the process of finishing up some courses I’ve started but have not yet completed, for various reasons. Sometimes they take a little time to get to, but when I finish them, I feel great — I feel a great sense of accomplishment as well. βΊοΈ) There are more reasons that those two to finish those lingering projects.
- You Free Up Mental Space
Unfinished projects take up more space in your mind than you might think. Every time you see them, or think about them, they remind you that they still need attention. Completing them removes that mental clutter, and gives you a sense of relief – as well as more mental space to do other things.
- You Build Confidence
Every time you finish something, no matter how small, it boosts your confidence. You prove to yourself that you can follow through, which makes it easier to tackle future goals. (It could also remind you going forward to be more thoughtful about what you start in the first place.)
- It Reduces Stress
Unfinished projects can create a sense of guilt or overwhelm. The longer they sit, the more stressful they can feel. But once they’re done? Instant stress relief! You’ll feel lighter, and more in control.
- It Creates Momentum
When you start finishing projects, you build momentum. That “done” feeling is addictive, and suddenly, you’ll find yourself wanting to complete more things. Before you know it, you’re on a productivity roll! (And who doesn’t want to feel that?! π)
- You Learn & Grow
Some unfinished projects might have been set aside because they got hard. But pushing through challenges teaches resilience, problem-solving, and new skills. (I know there was one course I’d started, and I got to a bit that I thought was too hard, so I put it aside. A year later, I was determined to continue — and it wasn’t as hard as I’d thought it would be! π) Each project you complete adds to your growth, and feeling of accomplishment — you found it hard, yet you still completed it. (Well done! π)
- You Make Room for New Ideas
Hanging onto unfinished projects can block you from new, exciting opportunities. By completing them (or deciding to let go of ones that no longer serve you), you create space for fresh ideas and experiences. (You have more mental space, less guilt, and more of a sense of accomplishment.) I now do this with books — if I’m not really enjoying or learning from it, rather than waste my time finishing it — for no reason — I just stop reading it, and let it go. It took me a while to get to that point, as I’d felt guilty for not finishing it — but what’s the point? Wouldn’t it be better to make space, making room for new ideas (or a new, better book) that you actually enjoy?
- You Get to Enjoy the Results!
Imagine finally finishing that DIY home project, and getting to admire your hard work. Or completing that interesting self-help book, and sharing the concepts learned with others. The reward is often better than we expect, and it makes all the effort worth it.
How to Get Started Finishing Projects
- Make a list – Write down all your unfinished projects. Seeing them in one place helps you prioritize.
- Pick one to start – Choose something manageable to complete first. Small wins lead to bigger wins. (And if you can finish a few small items, it leaves more mental space for the larger ones.)
- Set a deadline – Give yourself a reasonable timeframe to finish it.
- Break it into steps – If it feels overwhelming, break it down into smaller, doable tasks.
- Celebrate progress – Every step you complete is a success. Acknowledge it!
Final Thought
You don’t have to finish everything. Some projects may no longer align with your goals or interests, and that’s okay! Letting go of what no longer serves you is just as powerful as completing what does. But for those projects that still matter to you, finishing them can bring a sense of peace, joy, and accomplishment. So, why not pick one today, and take that first step? You’ll feel so much better for it!
What’s one unfinished project you’d love to complete? Let me know in the comments!
π FAQ - Finishing Unfinished Projects
Q - I have so many unfinished projects. Where do I start?
A - Begin by listing all your unfinished projects. Prioritize them based on importance and feasibility. Start with a small, manageable project to build momentum.
Q - What if I’ve lost interest in a project?
A - It’s okay to let go of projects that no longer align with your interests or goals. Decluttering these can free up mental and physical space for new endeavors.
Q - How do I stay motivated to finish long-term projects?
A - Break long-term projects into smaller tasks, and set mini-deadlines. Celebrate small victories along the way to maintain motivation.
Q - Is it better to finish one project at a time or multitask?
A - Focusing on one project at a time often leads to better results, and reduces overwhelm. However, find a balance that works best for you. After all, everyone is different, and you might like the variety of working on more than one at a time!
Q - How can I prevent accumulating unfinished projects in the future?
A - Before starting a new project, assess your current commitments, and ensure you have the time and resources to see it through. Setting realistic goals helps in managing and completing projects effectively.
Remember, completing your projects not only brings a sense of accomplishment, but also paves the way for new and exciting opportunities. So, pick a project, see it through, and enjoy the benefits that come with finishing what you start!
References/Further Reading
https://www.lifehack.org/articles/productivity/10-essential-tips-to-finish-what-you-start.html
https://tomweiland.net/importance-finishing-projects/
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Disclaimer
The information in this blog is for general inspiration and personal growth purposes only. It is not professional advice. Please use your own judgment and seek appropriate support if you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure about where to begin. Everyone’s journey is different — do what works best for you.
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