Zeigarniks

Zeigarniks is a term that refers to individuals who exhibit the Zeigarnik effect. The Zeigarnik effect is a psychological phenomenon that describes the tendency to remember unfinished or interrupted tasks better than completed ones. This effect was first described by Russian psychologist Bluma Zeigarnik in the 1920s.

People who are prone to the Zeigarnik effect may find themselves frequently thinking about tasks they have started but not yet finished. This can lead to a feeling of restlessness or a compulsion to return to and complete these tasks. For some, this can be a source of motivation, driving them to see projects through to completion. For others, it can be a source of distraction and anxiety, as their minds are constantly pulled back to incomplete items on their to-do list.

The underlying mechanism is believed to be related to cognitive load. An unfinished task creates a form of cognitive tension, a mental "itch" that the brain seeks to resolve by completing the task. Once a task is finished, this tension is released, and the memory of the task fades more readily. This effect can be observed in various aspects of life, from personal projects and work assignments to even social interactions. Understanding the Zeigarnik effect can offer insights into personal productivity and how individuals approach goal completion.