Keeping your home clean and organized is a daunting task for most people and it's even harder when your brain doesn't want to cooperate because you are dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, or other one of life's struggles. Let's talk about a few ways you can break it down into manageable pieces and still have a clean space to enjoy.
- Break tasks into smaller, more manageable steps: When you're feeling overwhelmed, even the smallest tasks can feel overwhelming. Instead of trying to tackle a space all at once, break it into smaller pieces. For example, instead of trying to clean your entire kitchen, focus on washing the dishes first.
- Create a cleaning schedule: Having a set cleaning schedule can help you stay on track and feel more in control. Decide which tasks you want to accomplish each day, and create a schedule that works for you. Be gentle with yourself. If you can't complete all the tasks that you set aside for the day, be proud of yourself for the ones you were able to do.
- Enlist the help of a friend or family member: Don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Reach out to a trusted friend or family member and ask if they can come over and help you clean. This gets you a cleaner space and time with people who care about you.
- Make cleaning fun: Try to make cleaning as enjoyable as possible. Turning cleaning into a fun activity can help you feel more motivated to get it done. Put on your favorite playlist and dance while you sweep. If you like ambient music, go to YouTube and search for "Medieval tavern" and pretend you are the owner of a popular tavern and you are cleaning it up at the end of a fun night.
- Put on a favorite TV show or other short entertainment: Set a goal to clean one space until that episode is over. Making it something that you've seen before and won't be tempted to sit down and watch would be best.
Remember, it's okay to take breaks and prioritize your mental health over-cleaning. Be kind to yourself and don't push yourself too hard. Keeping your living space clean can help improve your mood and overall well-being, but it's important to do it in a way that works for you.