Mental Nesting

Transitions and the Curse of Incompleteness


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What if the reason transitions feel so uncomfortable isn't because they're hard, but because we've been taught we're only allowed to feel settled once we reach some imaginary finish line?

In this vulnerable episode, Barbara shares her ongoing struggle with an unfinished move and the realization that she won't feel "at home" until every single box is unpacked and every task is complete. After pushing through exhaustion to clean for her father's visit, then staying up until 11pm cleaning again with her partner, she discovered a pattern that goes much deeper than organization.

If you've ever felt like you're living in limbo, waiting for the next thing to be finished before you can actually rest, this episode will help you see the "curse of incompleteness" for what it really is.

You'll explore:

  • Why we tie our worth to completion and what that costs us
  • How physical spaces mirror our internal states during transitions
  • The myth that healing has a clear endpoint you can reach
  • Why your body's signals matter more than your mental timeline
  • How to create "home" in the middle of ongoing change

This is for anyone who's ever said "once this is done, then I can rest" and found themselves constantly moving the goalpost. Because maybe the real curse isn't incompleteness—maybe it's believing you have to be complete to deserve peace.

Perfect for people in the middle of life transitions, recovering perfectionists, and anyone learning that rest isn't something you earn through finishing everything.

Brief mentions of family dynamics and physical exhaustion

Connect with Barbara: @mentalnesting_ on Instagram

Support the show

Thank you for being here, beautiful soul.

If this episode resonated with you, I'd be so grateful if you'd leave a review—it helps other sensitive souls find this gentle space we're creating together.

New episodes drop every Wednesday morning—perfect for your commute, morning walk, or cozy evening wind-down.

Connect with me:

  • Instagram: @mentalnesting_
  • Substack: mentalnesting.substack.com
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Join The Nest Community

Want to work together? I offer gentle, between-session support for therapy graduates and sensitive adults. Learn more about 1:1 coaching and community offerings at mentalnesting.com

Remember: Messy healing is still healing. You don't have to be done to be enough.

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Mental NestingBy Barbara Guimaraes, LMSW