Creating is a Process and Creating is Processing
I often talk about process not perfection (the name of a brilliant but long book about trauma and creativity) but what I think we talk less about is that creating, without the need for a finished "product" can be a really great way of processing our story, emotions, and developing our next steps.
There are a few reasons for this. Firstly it switches off the logical bit of our brains, and gives it enough work to do without overloading it. Secondly, we can use all our senses and our whole body to reflect, rather than just our mouths- or nothing at all! this allows us to process more fully what we are reflecting on, and to make links we might not otherwise make.
Some folk find it hugely uncomfortable to "do Craft" usually because of an expectation of right or wrong, or because growing up praise comes from producing "the best" or "properly completed" work.
If we craft not for productivity, but for processing then the whole shape of our interaction is different, and success isn't judged on the finished piece, but on the process we go on doing it.
When I lead a journey sticks workshop someone spoke about not accidentally throwing them on the fire... but what if the correct thing to continue the processing journey is to burn your created item? (note- make sure you do this in a safe way, and that the materials you're burning aren't plastic or otherwise toxic!) what if the small actionable step you take is to destroy the piece you've made... letting go of anger or frustration in the process?
Allowing myself to display unfinished work is a huge challenge for me- I struggle both with completing tasks, but also with leaving things unfinished (that's part of my particular neurosparkle delight!) by producing and displaying intentionally unfinished pieces it's a reminder to me that the process is what matters, and to lean into my strengths, not be limited by my weaknesses.