Where to Begin?

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The calendar says it’s spring and the weather has gotten moderately better. The phrase “spring cleaning” comes to mind. Note that it doesn’t necessarily inspire me to action, but…

Anyway, as I do my thing around the house, I have begun to notice things that could use some attention:

    The cupboard with my plastic ware needs straightening
    The coat closet near the garage could use some work
    My bedroom could stand a little clearing out
    My closet needs a makeover
    My kitchen counters need to be cleared off

Just for starters.

But how do you decide which project to tackle first? Especially if you’re like me and not that motivated?

(Normally this is where I would get into that whole procrastination = fear, self talk stuff that I preach teach, but now we’re just going to find some solutions.)

Start by making a list of what needs attention. If you keep a dump list – you do, don’t you? – then this is the place to add it. That way you know where it is.

Next we need to prioritize things.

Now I know that this is something that we ADDers struggle with, but I’m going to give you some tips.

Are there any tasks that are quick and easy? Those can go first.

Any that cost money beyond a few dollars? Might want to put those on hold and plan for them.

Any that bother you to no end? Head of the line my friend.

Let’s take a look at my list above. The closet makeover might be a bit pricey since the biggest thing is adding in some new summer clothes. 😉 That has to wait.

The coat closet could use some clearing out, especially on the floor, but it’s warmer now. It can wait until later in the summer.

The plastic ware cupboard gets used daily and was last “organized” by my 20 month old grandson. It would take maybe an hour at most to do. That’s a winner in my book.

The kitchen counter would also be a good candidate, but I think I need to give some thought to it first. Seems I’m always clearing it and then it just gets messy again. I need a new solution.

OK. Now that you’ve decided on your project, schedule it into your calendar. Go ahead. Do it.

I know you feel silly putting something like that on your calendar or in your planner, but that’s the only way it will get done in a timely manner.

So take a look at when you will have some free time and then schedule it in. (Ahem. Remember the Sunday night plan? Planning your week ahead of time? Might want to revisit that.)

Next step is preparing to do the task. What tools or supplies will you need? What prep work needs to be done?

For me, I will need some empty counter space to put all of my plastic ware while I am clearing the cupboard out. Maybe a wet cloth or some disinfectant wipes to clean the cupboard. And since the last person to “manage” the cupboard is still in diapers, I may need a box or basket for any random items I may find so that I can return them to their rightful place.

If your project involves organizing things, be sure to have some containers on hand. Containing like things within a closet or drawer can make a huge difference in how the space works.

A few hints:

    Find cleaners that smell good. They make the experience more enjoyable.
    Play some good music.
    Dress comfortably.
    Have some water nearby to drink.
    Consider having some tissue or antihistamine on hand if you’ll be stirring up some dust.

Try to limit these special cleaning tasks to once a week at most. Even two a month is OK. Oh, and don’t forget to get some help if you can. Boring things like cleaning and clutter busting are more fun with someone to do them with! Maybe you can trade with a friend.

Thats it. So get busy! Find a couple of things to spruce your house up for spring. Pretty soon it will be nice weather and we can all go outside!

Lacy Estelle

Lacy Estelle

Lacy Estelle is the writer of Lacyestelle.com and the Podcast host for An ADD Woman.

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