The Art of Finishing (bytedrum.com)

Article summary

The article discusses the author's struggle with finishing personal projects, a phenomenon referred to as the 'Project Hydra'. The author identifies the allure of starting new projects and the fear of finality as contributing factors to this issue. To overcome this, the author proposes strategies such as defining what 'done' means, embracing the minimum viable product, and setting deadlines. By implementing these strategies, the author hopes to develop the skill of finishing and tame the Project Hydra.

Main themes

• Project completion
• Personal growth
• Productivity
• Motivation
• Learning
• Goal setting

What commenters say

• Some argue that personal projects are not meant to be finished, and the journey is more important than the destination.
• Others believe that finishing projects is crucial for personal growth and skill development, and that not finishing can lead to a sense of inadequacy.
• A few commenters suggest that the pressure to finish projects can stifle creativity and enjoyment, and that it's okay to abandon or put projects on hold.
• Some propose that the key to finishing projects is to define clear goals and deadlines, and to prioritize tasks effectively.
• Others argue that the concept of 'finishing' is not always relevant, and that some projects are meant to be ongoing or iterative.
• A few commenters share their own strategies for managing multiple projects and avoiding procrastination, such as breaking tasks into smaller chunks and setting aside dedicated time for work.
• Some discuss the importance of self-reflection and understanding one's motivations for starting and abandoning projects.
• Others note that the ability to finish projects is not always a reflection of one's worth or abilities, and that it's okay to prioritize other aspects of life.