People tend to remember incomplete or interrupted tasks better than completed ones. One of the most well known examples is that of exams. A student might prepare for a test and memorize it perfectly. But after it is over, she/he might face difficulty in recalling exactly what they had learned. In this case, “giving the exam” was an incomplete task but after its completion, it has become a ‘complete event’. After a few days she/he might notice that she/he is unable to recall what they had learned!
This is known as the “Zeigarnik effect”. It states that our brain is better at recalling incomplete tasks than complete ones. We are more motivated to finish them. This occurs as a result of our subconscious mind asking our conscious mind to make a plan to achieve the particular goal. After the goal is achieved, our mind no longer works on making plans for it. It, instead, focuses on a different task.
Working on tasks, without a break, and constantly making goals in your brain can be very stressful. Thinking about it can cause a lot of anxiety and affect your mental health as well. Thus resting and taking breaks is very important. Taking a breather, spending time doing what you love to de-stress can help immensely.
But this can also be taken to your advantage as it prevents procrastination. If you start a task, even as simple as working on it for 5 minutes, and leave it incomplete, it will remain fresh in your brain. Your brain will ask you to give it a go. You can then slowly but steadily work on it till it’s finished! Incomplete and interrupted tasks are better remembered so you can try taking several short breaks in between to interrupt the task such as studying for an exam.
Using an effect or phenomenon to your advantage can help make your daily life a lot better!
Photo by Brett Jordan on Unsplash
Psyche Trail 
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