September always brings about a little spring in the step and the anticipation of warmer weather and new beginnings.
Every year, I vow and declare I am going to spring clean my house and my life.
Every year, I start with good intentions and lose momentum at the first hurdle.
This year I have a plan, one that is written up and attached to the fridge, so I see it every time I go into the kitchen.
It's a year-long plan. It is easier to allow that time for success as opposed to trying to achieve everything now. I have learned, often the hard way, succeeding at a few things well, is better than failing at all things superbly.
There are a few easy steps I have learned along the way, that when put into practice, give a higher chances of success.
1. Create a "to do" list.
Everything I want to do has gone on to this list - from washing the blankets to taking 10 minutes a day to relax, and everything in between. There are ideas on the list that just seem common sense to most people, like putting "time out" on a "to do" list, I have learned though, this is the only way it happens in my house.
2. Prioritise:
This can be easier said than done at times when everything seems to be urgent. I have found categorising the tasks the absolute best way to get stuff done. There is the home, study, family and other. The tasks that have a date attached (i.e. birthdays, meeting with friends etc) are all identified so they don't get lost on the list. Family and friends are a huge priority for me, so this was the first thing entered. Everything after that, slots in around those commitments.
3. Give the task a number:
I use the 1 to 5 coding system. 1 being the absolute must do (or the 1 day to finish task) and 5 meaning no one is missing out if I don't get this done in 5 days. It was amazing to me, once I sat down and work that out, how many I thought were urgent tasks, were not that urgent, and how much more I achieved using this system.
4. Pick the worst job first:
My husband laughs at me for doing this but it makes sense to me, if it is a job you loathe and detest doing the most - mine is clearing cobwebs and washing the car, there is always an excuse to put it off and do it another day. I have found, for me, the worst job is only really bad until it is done, then I start feeling good about finishing it.
5. Music playing:
I have a housework chores CD. It has my favorite "pump up and feel good" songs. There is a wide range of music on there, from the Corrs to Metallica. This one really does work, when you are absorbed by the music and happily plodding along, it is amazing how many things come off your "to do" list without even realising you are doing it.
6. Delegate:
Asking some one for help with your "to do list" can be really rewarding at times, especially when they have a different way of looking at things. I have found that there are times when feeling overwhelmed by tasks makes it harder to complete any tasks at all. They don't have to be huge tasks that you delegate. Other people like feeling needed and important, and it is a good way of spending time that may not normally be available.
However you need to motivate yourself, whatever you need to do to get your groove on for spring cleaning, just do it. There is nothing more satisfying than looking back at a job well done and feeling proud of yourself and all you have achieved.
I absolutely guarantee you that you will love every minute of it once you have a plan in place and the right resources to help you.
Happy cleaning every one.