Last month, I put together a rack that I lovingly call my “Whips and Chains.” It’s a mnemonic for “Work In Progress” and “Currently Hibernating: Awaiting Needlework”, it’s my unfinished and not yet started projects. If you have a hobby, mainly a crafting hobby, like sewing or crocheting, you likely also have a backlog of projects. Speaking from experience, having a room filled with unfinished projects, some of which are not even started, is a reflection of your growth and where you are at now.

Creative Sustainability and Slow Making

Choosing to make something instead of just going out to buy it can be a way to live more sustainably. You have complete control over the design, materials, and execution. You can select sustainably-minded materials, design to fit your specific needs, and it will be ethically mindful and fulfill sustainability requirements!

It’s About the Journey

In slow living, your journey is at least as important as the destination. Our Whips and Chains can be seen as milestones in a creative journey. The milestones represent learning, experimentation, and personal growth. For example, I have a dress on my rack that I started to sew at least 11 years ago, which is still unfinished. That was my first clothing attempt on my own.

Whips & Chains highlight where we were emotionally, mentally, or creatively at that point in our lives. When we revisit these projects, we can recall the intentions, hopes, or challenges faced when we started or planned the project.

So don’t beat yourself up if you haven’t finished something(s). Sometimes, not finishing something is simply a sign of our changing needs and realizing we can’t do everything.

Whips and Chains with Intention

Sort Your Unfinished Projects

When going through your projects, consider grouping by mood, season, or intention. I sorted mine by hobby and approximate time needed to complete. Or simply permit yourself to let go of that project without guilt.

Make Space- Figuratively and Literally

Physical Space: Dedicate a shelf, basket, or bin for your projects. You want the item to be visible and accessible. But not overwhelming. Keep me the necessary tools and materials organized. But not hidden away. You want this space to be inviting and not shame you into action.

Mental Space: Permit yourself to have an unfinished project, or two, or three. Let go of the idea that everything must be completed in a strict timeline.

Build a Sustainable Rhythm When Tackling Your Whips & Chains

Pacing yourself and honoring your energy cycles. Set realistic, flexible goals, like dedicating a set time to create. Listen to your body and mind; let your creative practice ebb and flow with your life, rather than forcing it into rigid routines.

All Starts Must End

In our mental health journeys, we must understand and accept that not every beginning has an ending. Some things, both creatively and in life, are meant to remain unfinished. They served their purpose of learning, as an escape, or a way to process emotions at that point.

My 11-year-old dress reminds me of how far I have come. I’ve lost count of all the projects I have completed since. So, maybe I’ll finish it, perhaps I’ll just let it remind me of the courage I had to start something I didn’t have a lot of experience with. Comment on your unfinished projects and share what it means to you.

Letting go of the need to finish everything can lower self-imposed pressure and allow us to focus on what truly brings us joy and fulfillment. In a world so focused on productivity and having a perfect record, we have to give a little compassion and flexibility to ourselves.