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A thing happened to me in the last month that I did not expect: What should have been a real dive into the joy of painting turned into a crippling freeze. Things that I had been looking forward to painting for a long time all came together at the same time and instead of taking pleasure in the mass of models I was overwhelmed.

Specifically, it was that I got the new Cities of Sigmar box, which I was really looking forward to, plus the Flames of War Kasserine box arrived, which I was also really looking forward to, plus then the Ravaged Star Kickstarter finally fulfilled and I got a whole host of the Veil-Touched. I was smothered in models. (And then King Trugg came along???)

But I couldn’t enjoy them. I put together most (some) of them, and painted a few of them, and then they all just sat there by my desk, staring at me, daring me to do something. And I couldn’t.

Now, I’m mentally ill, and depression is a thing I suffer from. And one symptom of depression is the inability to take pleasure in things you normally enjoy. That was very much on display here.

But it got me thinking: these piles of shame that we always talk about (see video after video after video) may not be something to be proud of. Maybe, shame is not actually a flex but a literal shame.

Understanding the “Pile of Shame”

The “miniature painting pile of shame” is not merely a pile of unpainted models. It’s a reflection of ambition, sometimes outpacing our ability to keep up. It’s that set of Kruleboyz from Age of Sigmar you bought on an impulse, the Warhammer 40k Triumph of St. Katherine you got during a sale, or the Bolt Action Panzers that looked too good to pass up.

While many see it as a badge of procrastination blight, others view it in a more positive light, calling it the “miniature painting pile of opportunity.” Instead of focusing on what hasn’t been done, this perspective celebrates the potential of what can be.

Each model is a canvas, each set an opportunity for creativity, and each game a world waiting to be brought to life. Which pile do you see when you look at your collection?

How Your Pile of Shame Can Affect Mental Health:

Amidst the vibrant tapestry of miniatures from universes like Warhammer and Bolt Action lies a more profound, often overlooked narrative — the psychological impact of the “pile of shame.” This term, jovially coined by the gaming community (because your video game pile of shame is often as big as your miniature pile of shame), can, for many, become a genuine source of mental and emotional strain. Let’s explore how this seemingly innocent accumulation can affect our mental well-being.

Worries About Wasting Money

There’s no denying the adrenaline surge you feel when acquiring the latest Warhammer 40k release or a special edition from Games Workshop. I know I get it. When I talk about the three parts of the wargaming hobby–lore, gameplay, and painting–that overlooks the thing I like to do best: collect. That thrill I got when the Cities of Sigmar pre-order came in a day early, or that Ravaged Star box came in after two years wait.

It’s akin to the thrill of unwrapping a much-desired gift. However, as these models start accumulating, untouched, the initial exhilaration often morphs into distress.

I really don’t think that being a miniature collector is healthy, ESPECIALLY when you’re not even a miniature assembler. If you can’t use a model in a game, you’re basically starting a negative-interest savings account that sits in your closet.

Every unassembled and unpainted miniature, particularly from premium franchises like Age of Sigmar or The Batman Miniatures Game (which is unconscionably expensive), is a tangible representation of investment. But beyond the monetary commitment, it signifies an emotional one — to paint, assemble, and immerse oneself in the world of the miniature.

When these models gather dust, they not only indicate financial expenditure but also echo missed opportunities and wasted potential. This realization can spur feelings of guilt, remorse, and anxiety, especially when confronted with the tangible evidence of their monetary choices regularly.

Obsessive-Compulsive Behaviors

The vast, immersive universes offered by games like Warhammer and Bolt Action can sometimes prove to be a double-edged sword. The inherent drive to complete an army, own a limited edition set (FOMO marketing is 1000% a thing in wargaming), or possess every character can push enthusiasts into a cycle of obsessive acquisition.

Such patterns manifest when the primary thrill lies in buying and not in utilizing. The fear of missing out on a rare set or the need to have every single model can lead to compulsive purchasing behaviors. This obsession is further amplified by regular releases, updates, and expansions characteristic of companies like Games Workshop.

Before you realize it, you’re trapped in a cycle — compulsively buying, stacking up the pile of shame, and then experiencing the subsequent stress and anxiety of seeing the unused models.

Unnecessary Internal Expectations

The miniature wargaming community, with its forums, conventions, and social media platforms, can be a melting pot of inspiration. Seeing a magnificently painted Warhammer 40k army from Armies on Parade, or an intricately designed diorama from Age of Sigmar in the Golden Demon contest, can be genuinely awe-inspiring. However, this admiration can sometimes translate into internal pressure.

The unsaid expectation to paint at a certain skill level, to keep up with peers, or to have the latest sets can be daunting. Scrolling through meticulously painted armies or engaging in discussions where enthusiasts discuss their completed projects can sometimes make one’s pile of shame feel even more burdensome. This comparison, whether conscious or subconscious, can foster feelings of inadequacy, underachievement, and self-critique.

Additionally, these internal expectations aren’t always shaped by external influences. Personal ambition, the desire to excel, or the innate need to complete can further exacerbate these feelings. Every unpainted miniature then becomes more than just a toy; it symbolizes procrastination, unmet goals, and dwindling passion.

Social Pressure and Isolation

The miniature wargaming community thrives on shared experiences — gaming sessions, painting workshops, conventions, and more. However, an extensive pile of shame can sometimes lead enthusiasts to avoid these gatherings for fear of judgment or questions about their unpainted collections. This avoidance can result in feelings of isolation and exclusion, severing one from the very community that can provide encouragement and support.

Moreover, the hesitance to engage socially due to an overwhelming pile can lead to missed opportunities for learning, collaborative projects, and the sheer joy of shared gaming experiences. In extreme cases, some may even withdraw from online forums and discussions to avoid any perceived judgment or critique.

Reframing the Pile: From Shame to Opportunity

Every miniature enthusiast knows the “pile of shame” all too well. However, a simple shift in perspective can make all the difference. Instead of viewing it as a looming reminder of tasks undone, imagine it as the “miniature painting pile of opportunity.”

Yes, I know that I’m not the one to come up with this phrase, and yes, I know that a lot of people roll their eyes at it, But I like it.

Each unpainted figure from Warhammer, Bolt Action, or any other beloved game is a blank canvas, holding a world of potential. The stories yet to be told, the techniques yet to be tried, and the games yet to be played all lie within that pile. Embracing this mindset not only alleviates the guilt but also reignites the passion for the art. By seeing every model as an opportunity to learn, create, and enjoy, the hobby regains its true essence: a source of joy and creative expression. It’s time to turn that pile of shame into a treasure trove of potential.

Solutions and Tips for Managing Your Pile of Opportunity

There are actionable strategies one can employ to keep their collection in check and their passion burning bright. Let’s explore some of these solutions:

Set Realistic Goals

Rather than being overwhelmed by the magnitude of your collection, break it down. Start small. Perhaps you decide to focus on a single Warhammer regiment or a squad from Bolt Action. Heck, start with a single clan rat or ratling–something tiny. By setting manageable, bite-sized targets, you not only make the task more approachable but also experience the gratification of achieving your goals more frequently. Remember, it’s not a race; it’s about enjoying the journey.

Organize and Prioritize

A little organization can work wonders. Consider these steps:

• Designated Area: Create a specific spot for miniature painting. Having a dedicated space reduces the inertia of starting and can make the process more inviting.
• Inventory Check: List out the models you have. Sometimes, just visualizing the extent of your pile can be a motivation to start.
• Prioritize: Perhaps there’s a new Warhammer 40k campaign you’re excited about or an Age of Sigmar unit you’ve always wanted to field. Prioritize those sets. Paint what excites you most first.

Engage with the Community

The miniature wargaming community is one of the most supportive and vibrant out there. Tap into it.

• Painting Challenges: Many forums and groups host monthly painting challenges. This can serve as a motivation to reduce your pile and also a platform to showcase your work.
• Workshops: Engage in workshops or painting sessions. Sometimes, painting alongside others, even virtually, can be a boost.
• Share and Collaborate: Share your progress. Get feedback. Collaborate on big projects. Engaging with peers can be both educational and motivating. This is what Hobby Streak is all about. Personally, I’ve found Instagram to be the most welcoming place for miniature painters of all the social media platforms.

Limit New Purchases

While it’s tempting to get that latest release from Games Workshop or dive into a new army for Flames of War, moderation is key.

• One-in-Two-Out Rule: For every new model you buy, aim to complete two from your pile of shame. This not only keeps your collection in check but also ensures you’re constantly engaging with what you own.
• Wishlist Instead of Cart: Instead of impulsively buying, add items to a wish list. Give it a week or two. If you’re still as excited, consider the purchase. This reduces impulse buys and ensures you’re adding models you genuinely want to paint and play with. (My wish list is very very long.)

Celebrate Small Wins

It’s essential to pat yourself on the back every now and then.

• Document Your Journey: Take before and after pictures. Over time, seeing your progress can be incredibly rewarding.
• Showcase: Be it on social media, forums, or within your gaming group, share your finished models. The positive reinforcement from peers can be a significant boost.
• Reflect: Every so often, take a moment to appreciate how far you’ve come. Remember, every painted model, every completed set is a testament to your dedication to the hobby.

Conclusion

The world of miniature wargaming is filled with boundless opportunities for creativity, strategy, and camaraderie. While the pile of shame might seem daunting, with the right mindset and strategies, it can be transformed from a burden into a treasure chest of potential. Embrace your collection, engage with the community, celebrate your progress, and most importantly, enjoy every moment of this incredible hobby. Whether it’s the fierce battles of Warhammer 40k, the intricate narratives of Age of Sigmar, or the historical adventures of Flames of War – every model is an opportunity waiting to be seized.