Thoughts Brewing Blog

Maybe this is why You Feel Overwhelmed - Zeigarnik Effect

Written by Damien Griffin | Mar 5, 2023 12:02:00 AM

Incomplete tasks cause cognitive tension that persists until you complete them. 

This is called the Zeigarnik Effect - named after psychologist Bluma Zeigarnik.  

Maybe this is a good thing:

  • Better recall of information before an exam
  • Immersive experiences with a good book or video game because they create a sense of unfinished business
  • More motivation to achieve goals

Maybe this is a bad thing:

  • Too many “open” tasks can create more cognitive tension
  • May lead to ignoring more important tasks
  • Some obsess over completing tasks and neglect health, relationships, etc.

 

Now that you know it exists.  You choose.