Stop Starting and Start Finishing

I become a bit overwhelmed when I start to make a list of the activities that I have started. They often stare at me like a dog sitting patiently for a treat, yet somehow fail to make it to completion. Most of the list consists of easy stuff, like the dozen or so books on my nightstand filled with earmarks half-way through, and the pile of papers next to my computer that I have every intention of reading.

Then there are more impactful activities that require a team effort, most often in an office setting, that have greater repercussions if not finished. Not completing these tasks usually results in a waste of time, money, and resources, not to mention a feeling of being all talk and no action. I am confident we have all been part of this scenario. It starts with great enthusiasm and innovation by all parties and then slowly, as time passes, people forget what was so exciting. They get busy with their tasks at hand and when enough time has passed and the thrill is gone, they question why they even thought it was a good idea in the first place. Unfortunately, the idea ends up in the “all start, no finish” pile.

I believe that we can (and need to) lessen these false starts in our lives. It may be as simple as asking ourselves a few questions at the onset to force us to get to the “why” before we get to the “what”. Why do I want to start another book? Why do we want to embark on this project? In essence, pressing the pause button for a moment before the thrill of the ride and excitement blurs logic. I know that I will be glad when the finished list is longer than the start list.

Comments

[Susan Schneider]

Hello Cliff,

Thanks for the link – I will be sure to spend some time reading – always good to get some handy tips for keeping our lives simple.

Have a good weekend,

Susan

[Cliff Cannon]

Susan - I've been testing out the Pomodoro Technique created by Francesco Cirillo. He a non-believer in multi-tasking and uses this method to focus on the task(s) at hand, basedon 25 minute intervals. Lots of free information online at www.pomodorotechnique.com. Stay well!

[Susan Schneider]

Hello Marcus,

Great to hear from you! Okay, patiently might be an overstatement – my dogs are not patient! Glad you liked the post – it’s a good reminder for all of us! Have a great day.

[Marcus Cary]

I'm still stuck on "dog sitting patiently for a treat". I'm going to have to discuss that with our dogs. JK..another wonderful message Susan and so very true. I continue to appreciate and enjoy very much reading your blogs. Have a wonderful day!