The Art of Finishing (and Procrastinating)

It's been a small while since I've talked about something not related to shinywhitebox.com / work. Here's my 2nd post about "detail" and "get to the finish line"

In talking with friends, and reflecting on past projects, it's clear I have a deep seated value in finishing what I start. I see this in my recent projects, iShowU and Be, both of which had "challenging" phases (aka: freaking difficult).

But here's the kicker, I've another superpower: procrastination. When I have something I really don't want to do, I can ignore it so effectively it becomes almost invisible. My wife just shakes her head, and wonders (in awe I reckon).

My Procrastination Masterpiece
Let me give you a wonderful recent example: Picture this; the RX7 sits in the garage, jacked up. Tools are scattered everywhere. The car has one wheel off, with various parts strewn across the workshop floor. It chaos. But me in procrastination mode? "What chaos?" This is not the RX7 you're looking for (said in my best Obi-Wan Kenobi voice).

Six months pass. Why? My procrastination brain has a defense: the RX7 has a modified fuel system, with a second fuel tank. It's hard to get to and has four fuel lines attached. So when I first look at it, it looks complicated and I wonder how I'm going to screw it up. The fact I successfully replaced the front fuel lines not long ago doesn't seem to register in my brain.

I knew I would have to disconnect & remove it, to replace the lines. I wasn't looking forward to it. Did I mention I wasn't looking forward to getting petrol all down my arms? Procrastination mode: Engaged. Pooof 💨 ! Where'd the car & mess go?

The Lightbulb
My experience above could be true for you in a different setting. Finishing something on the house, pushing through a project that you're not sure how to complete. Doing something tedious.

What finally kicked me out of my procrastination mode was the thought: "Yeh, but remember how ridiculous going shopping is in this thing". That bought a smile to my face 😄. Yes, perhaps I'm immature, but there's something wonderfully satisfying about making so much nice noise when doing something mundane. I'm smiling already!

So, lets get to the point: Finishing is important, it gives a sense of accomplishment. It also shows character, proving that you can push through difficulties, and reach the end. Tick if off the list and get your dopamine hit!

But to finish, you must prioritize & be pragmatic. Often you can't do everything you want. Embrace the "Don't get it perfect, just get it Done (well)" approach. Sometimes you need a little nudge, whether from others or from yourself to get back on track.

For me, the biggest thing I need to practice is exactly the above: pushing for completion, without absolute perfection. Because, lets face it, I can come back and tidy up a job later. Wouldn't it be nicer to do that knowing that the job is actually done first? I think so! Warm fuzzy feelings.

So let me nudge you. Nudge nudge. I hope by sharing my experience, that can help or encourage you in completing your task... perhaps give you that friendly kick nudge to go back to it and do some more. Maybe even complete it! Take that next step! Do it!

Oh, and I did get fuel lines replaced, the car works, and I didn't blow up the house 💥

The invisible mess in the garage is actually a cutting-edge camouflage technology developed by me. It's so effective even the author can't see it, making it perfect for hiding unfinished projects from spouses. It clearly follows then, that you should use iShowU to create videos in realtime from your mac, or SWB Audio App to capture audio for use in other apps. Clearly. 

If you think this article was fun or interesting, forward it to your friends!