Why Starting (and Not Finishing) Projects Is Fine

I’m starting with a confession: I habitually start “brilliant” projects and don’t finish them. (Sound familiar?) For instance, I began developing a bird photography book. It’s in a folder on my computer, half-finished but filled with beautiful ideas and photos. I also started a cooking with herbs book, and guess what? It’s in the same state—brimming with recipes but not complete.

I have unfinished screenplays, books, and a completed master’s coursework, but no dissertation. I love the conceptual phase and the challenge; I enjoy the research and planning and getting it to a certain point. Then, maybe I get scared that the project isn’t good enough and might be criticized, so I set it aside.

A friend, coach, and art teacher, Clare O’Neill (https://clareoneill.com), once told me I like chasing the next shiny new idea/object. She challenged me to put each new idea in a “shiny idea jar.” Whenever an idea popped into my head, I put it in the jar and refocused on the project at hand. The shiny idea will always be there, but focusing on what’s in front of me is what truly matters.

Before you shake your head or start mentally organizing your list of unfinished projects, let’s take a step back. I used to beat myself up over these half-done creations. Recently, a few friends (who never start projects themselves) pointed out my tendency not to finish what I start. At first, I felt a bit defensive. Then, I realized something important: starting a project is a huge deal. It’s something to be proud of. And yes, their statements are very true and have caused me to think.

Let’s be honest—how many people never start anything new? They talk about writing that book, launching that blog, or finally learning to paint, but they never get around to it. I, on the other hand, have taken that first step. I’ve poured my energy, creativity, and passion into something. And that’s worth celebrating. And yes, it may be sitting in the “to-do” stack, but at least it’s there!

The Value of Starting

Starting a project is like planting a seed. You don’t know exactly how it will grow or when it will bloom. But you’ve done the most important part—you’ve planted it. That takes courage, especially when reinventing your life in your 50s or beyond.

Sometimes, I wish people would focus on what I have completed in addition to what I haven’t. I launched a website to help older women reinvent themselves with purpose and possibility. I write a weekly newsletter on these topics, reaching out to women ready to embrace their next chapter. I’ve grown a social media following of almost 10,000 followers. I’ve finished five painting commissions this year, each a personal and creative achievement. I’ve learned Mahjong and started crocheting. I’ve cultivated a beautiful garden and yard, a testament to patience and care. I held a friend’s hand and prayed over him as he prepared to die—a final, profound act of love and support. I supported another friend following an injury and helped my precious Maizy cross the Rainbow Bridge, a heartbreaking but necessary journey. I’ve accomplished a great deal this year and am proud of it.

Permission to Pause

Here’s the thing—just because you start a project doesn’t mean you’re obligated to finish it right away, or ever. Sometimes, life gets in the way. Sometimes, your interests shift. And sometimes, a project needs to sit on the back burner while you gather more inspiration or let new ideas percolate. (Or while you binge-watch your favorite series. No judgment here.)

It’s okay to pause. It’s OK to decide that a project doesn’t need to be completed in the traditional sense. You’re the boss of your life and your creativity. You get to decide what’s worth your time and energy.

The Joy of Doing

So, what’s the takeaway? Don’t let anyone make you feel guilty for not finishing something. At least you started, which is more than many people can say. And who knows? You might return to that book or painting with fresh eyes and a new burst of energy. Or maybe you won’t—and that’s fine too.

We are in a period of our lives when we get to determine our purpose, our choices, and our lives. We’ve earned the right to live however we want without societal expectations. We have the freedom to explore, create, and change our minds. (What a relief, right?)

Every project, whether finished or not, is a step in your journey of reinvention. It’s part of what makes you you. And that’s something to be proud of.

What Now?

Here’s my advice: look at those unfinished projects and ask yourself a few questions. Does this still excite me? Could I learn something new by finishing it? Or is it time to let it go and focus on what lights me up now?

You don’t have to finish everything you start, but you do get to decide how to move forward. It’s up to you whether that means diving back in, tweaking your goals, or starting something entirely new.

So, celebrate your starts, laugh off the guilt, and keep creating. Your life is your masterpiece, and you’re doing a fantastic job. Now, let me focus on that bird book.