Life-Love 69: Completing a project

Our lives are populated by incomplete projects. Half-finished bird-houses lie in our sheds awaiting a final coat of paint or a roof, the beginnings of books and poems litter our notebooks and flutter around our offices in blizzards of paper. Sometimes, however, we steel ourselves to work, or, more likely, clear enough time to be able to work consistently when inspiration takes us. We start thinking about a project by worrying about it  – pulling together our thoughts and trying to organise the pieces of the project in our minds. Then we mull it over, research what others have done, pull together our resources – mental and material – and then get to work. Then we work steadily, but are often plagued by interruptions, which frustrate us, keeping us away from the road that leads to progress on the project and completion. Finally, at one point, we start to see the light at the end of the tunnel, and get right down to it. It’s at this point that having supportive friends and/or family, or at least a comfortable and secure working environment are so important. There is no greater support than being able to talk over the progress with someone who cares and who provides support. To have someone pay attention to your project and tell you that they like it, that they support you in your endeavour. Who share in your excitement at what you’re up to. It’s a warm feeling knowing that you have a team of allies, or at least a cheerleader. They help you overcome the steep hill that always seems to present itself just before a project reaches completion. Once you have crested that hill, however, you have to put into the final sprint to a quasi-final version. Then you work it over, tweaking the colour, shape and texture, working on it until you’re reading to submit it for public consideration. Then the blessed moment arrives when you put the last lick of paint or varnish, or edit the last word and… it’s done. You’ve completed something and you feel good. Life is better when it is marked by a series of completed projects – happy milestones marking your accomplishments and progress as the years roll on.

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2 Comments

  1. I tend to agree with what you wrote. One of your colleagues asked an excellent question to the class in CMST 3H03, and I’d like to hear your response to it. The question is as follows: Are we defined by these tasks and accomplishments or are our lives more than just the things found on our CVs/resumes?

    I ask you that question because of the themes of your “life-loves”. Some are clearly related to your academic and professional accomplishments whilst others are about things you generally enjoy, e.g. playing the piano.

    1. Thanks for the comment, Goce. I think I derive purpose from my professional life, and inspiration from the little things I do: decorate my house, cook tasty dinners, play the piano, go fencing, etc. The two feed one another, however. If I let my personal life slip, then I lose my drive and creativity in my professional life. It’s a world of balance, I guess.

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