Fatigue comes not only from overload but also from unfinished tasks. Even small tasks, postponed conversations, and unfulfilled promises to oneself create constant background tension and drain energy. A psychologist explains how to recognize such "leaks" and regain your strength.
Energy is drained not by what we actively do, but by what remains unfinished. These "open loops" keep our attention in a constant state of tension, and the longer they remain uncompleted, the stronger the feeling of fatigue.
1. The Conversation You Keep Procrastinating
Unspoken words create internal tension. You constantly replay dialogues in your head, crafting responses and imagining reactions. Until the conversation takes place, your mind keeps it as an "open file," and energy is spent on preparation rather than resolution.
2. The Decision You Are Afraid to Make
To stay or to leave, to change or to endure, to agree or to refuse — an unmade decision keeps the brain in a state of "suspension." The brain expends more energy on uncertainty than on the consequences of a mistake. Energy returns only after a choice is made.
3. The Small Task You Keep Putting Off
Making a call, sending an email, scheduling an appointment, sorting documents — a small task that constantly pops up in your mind creates background noise. It may not be frightening, but it drains attention more than it seems.
4. Someone Else's Expectation You Took Upon Yourself
You agreed or nodded "yes" — and now you live with an internal obligation. Energy is spent on maintaining the image of "I must." The longer the expectation remains unresolved, the stronger the feeling of tension and guilt.
5. An Unfinished Chapter from the Past
Past relationships, an old job, an unfinished project, or a grudge continue to drain energy until you let them go. An unresolved chapter does not require fixing — it is important to acknowledge and release it.
6. A Promise to Yourself That You Are Ignoring
Scheduling a doctor's appointment, taking a break, taking care of yourself — unfulfilled promises destroy internal trust and consume energy. Restoring that trust requires much more effort than simply fulfilling the promise.
How to Regain Energy
Energy returns when you stop holding onto unfinished business. Start with an honest inventory: what are you carrying in your mind but not doing?
Divide your tasks into three categories:
- Things that can be closed quickly.
- Things that require a decision rather than action.
- Things that are no longer needed but you keep out of habit or a sense of duty.
Not all conversations need to happen, but every internal dialogue must be closed. Sometimes it is enough to acknowledge: "I am not going to do this" — and energy returns.
Small completions work better than big leaps. One document sent, one clear "no," one decision made creates a sense of support and internal order. Redirect your attention to yourself — and energy will stop leaking.
