If everything isn’t perfectly organized, why bother? Does that sound familiar?
That type of thinking can get you stuck and cause clutter to get the best of you. This type of internal message is an outgrowth of perfectionism and guilt. It stops you from getting started and gives you an excuse because it fosters the belief that if it isn’t perfect then it isn’t worth doing.
The solution is to get real. No house can look perfect all the time (especially if you have others living with you or unless you live with the Cleavers or Nelsons). Here are some suggestions to help you get real and deal with the all-or-nothing attitude:
- Start being realistic and ask yourself “when is good good enough? Evaluate your beliefs and the vision you have for your home.
- Do the worst first. Tackle your messiest area first or what I call your “hot spot”. By clearing the clutter away and organizing one area you can get a sense of accomplishment which can help motivate you to move on.
- Simplify your expectation. Instead of expecting that you will spend all day de-cluttering, organizing and cleaning. Set a timer for 15 minutes. Pick a room or just go through the house with a garbage bag and see what you can clear away or toss in that timeframe. This sweep can create enough flow or movement to keep you going the next day.
So which spot are you going to tackle today?
“Don’t let what you can’t do interfere with what you can do.” ~ Anonymous