The Ontology of Unfinished Things: Why We Procrastinate and Fail to Finish

We’ve all been there:

A project brimming with potential, ignited with initial enthusiasm, slowly fades into the background, another casualty in the graveyard of unfinished things. Why does this happen? Why do we start with such vigor only to falter, procrastinate, and ultimately fail to finish? While psychology offers valuable insights into the mechanics of procrastination, exploring the ontology—the nature of being—of unfinished things can offer a deeper understanding of this pervasive human experience.

The Ontology of a Project:

Before diving into why projects remain unfinished, it's crucial to understand what a project is ontologically. A project, at its core, is not merely a collection of tasks or a physical object. It exists as a possibility, a potentiality, a future state envisioned in the present. It's a commitment to bring something new into being, to shift from "what is" to "what could be."

This inherent futurity is key. A project lives in the realm of "not yet." It's an anticipation, a promise to oneself or others. This very nature of being "not yet" creates a space for interpretation, for shifting definitions, and, crucially, for procrastination.

The Gap Between Intention and Action:

Procrastination isn't simply laziness; it's a complex phenomenon rooted in the gap between our intention (the project as a possibility) and the concrete actions required to realize it. This gap is where the ontology of unfinished things begins to take shape.

1. The Idealized Self vs. the Acting Self: We often begin projects with an idealized image of ourselves: the disciplined, efficient, and capable person who will effortlessly execute every task. However, when we encounter challenges, discomfort, or the sheer effort required, this idealized self clashes with our "acting self," the one who experiences resistance, fatigue, and the temptation to avoid. This dissonance can lead to procrastination as a way to avoid confronting the gap between who we want to be and who we are in the moment of action.

2. The Fear of the Unknown: Projects represent a journey into the unknown. We don't know exactly what challenges we'll encounter, what obstacles we'll face, or what the final outcome will be. This uncertainty can trigger anxiety and fear, leading to procrastination as a way to avoid confronting the unknown. The "not yet" of the project becomes a shield against the potential disappointment or discomfort of the "what is."

3. The Weight of Potential: A project, in its unfinished state, holds infinite potential. It's a blank canvas where anything is possible. Ironically, this very potential can become a burden. The fear of not living up to the idealized potential of the project can paralyze us, leading to procrastination as a way to preserve the illusion of limitless possibility. Once the project is finished, the potential is realized, but also limited to the actual outcome.

4. The Lack of Structure and Definition: As mentioned earlier, a project exists in the realm of "not yet." Without a clear structure—defined goals, timelines, and action steps—the project remains amorphous and overwhelming. This lack of definition makes it easy to postpone action, as there's no clear starting point or path forward. The project remains a vague intention rather than a concrete plan.

5. The Absence of Accountability: Without external accountability, the commitment to the project remains solely internal. This makes it easier to renegotiate the terms of the commitment, to postpone deadlines, and ultimately to abandon the project altogether. The "not yet" of the project becomes a perpetual state, as there's no external pressure to bring it into being.

The Ontological Shift: From Potential to Actual:

Completing a project requires an ontological shift, a transformation from the realm of possibility to the realm of actuality. This shift involves several key elements:

1. Embracing Imperfection: Letting go of the idealized self and accepting the imperfections of the acting self. Recognizing that progress, not perfection, is the key to completion. This shifts the focus from avoiding mistakes to learning and growing through the process.

2. Facing the Unknown: Acknowledging and accepting the uncertainty inherent in any project. Embracing the journey of discovery and recognizing that challenges are opportunities for growth. This changes the “not yet” from a source of fear to a space of exploration.

3. Defining and Structuring the Project: Creating a clear plan with defined goals, milestones, timelines, and action steps. This transforms the project from a vague intention into a concrete roadmap, making it easier to take action and track progress.

4. Establishing Accountability: Seeking external support and establishing mechanisms for accountability. This can involve working with a coach, joining a mastermind group, or simply sharing your goals with a friend or colleague. This adds an external dimension to the commitment, making it harder to renegotiate or abandon the project.

5. Taking Action: Ultimately, completing a project requires taking action, consistently and persistently. This involves breaking down large tasks into smaller, manageable steps, prioritizing tasks, and dedicating consistent time to working on the project. This is the act that brings the “not yet” into the realm of “now.”

The Vision Forge: Forging the Shift:

The Vision Forge understands the ontological challenges of project completion. Our three-month program is designed to facilitate the necessary ontological shift by providing:

• Structured Planning: We guide clients in developing clear and actionable plans, transforming vague intentions into concrete roadmaps.

• Execution Support: We provide hands-on guidance and resources to help clients navigate the challenges of implementation and maintain momentum.

• Dedicated Coaching and Accountability: We provide consistent support, motivation, and accountability, creating an external framework that reinforces the commitment to completion.

By addressing the underlying ontological reasons why projects remain unfinished, The Vision Forge empowers individuals and businesses to not just start, but to finish, transforming their visions into tangible realities. We help our clients move from the realm of endless potential to the satisfaction of actual accomplishment, one completed project at a time.