Cleaning With Meaning
There you stand confidently, mop in one hand, boxes in another with a hard defiant gaze at the mess looming before your determined silhouette.
“I’ve got this, the clutter doesn’t stand a chance”, you whisper as you take a hefty swig from your “Boss Babe” coffee mug.
The image of a petite yet intimidating Marie Kondo appears in your mind as you start to pick through a pile of clothes that you’ve held onto since the 7th grade.
She gives you a questionable and (slightly judgmental) stare as you hesitate on a baby doll dress (three sizes too small) and your shoulders start to slump.
This could be harder than you thought.
If this rings any bells of familiarity in you when you try to clean or declutter- you are not alone.
Organizing and cleaning can be a daunting (and often emotional) task.
When you haven’t tackled the project in a while, it can feel overwhelming.
If you really despise the idea altogether, it can be hard to start.
But have some faith- and don’t lose your religion just yet.
Cleaning/organizing can not only be made a little more fun, it can help boost your mood and put your mind at ease as well.
And, if you need some convincing, here is an article on the positive psychology behind cleaning to help further put some Windex on your mirror. (Bad metaphor, I’m sorry)
I’ll admit that I’m a bit of a weirdo when it comes to cleanliness and organization (at least in my home, let’s not talk about my car, because that’s a whole other story).
My living space is my safe haven, and as such- my fortress (whether it be a small room in a house or an entire apartment) has always maintained some sense of order.
The way I see it, my outer surroundings reflect my inner world, so when my place is a mess- there’s a good chance I am too.
Lately, I can admit that my routine has fallen below my level of “normalcy” and I’ve been in need of a push as well.
The world is crazy, we are all forgiven for what we let slip- be gentle with yourself.
I’ll share with you what helps me see the endeavor as a worthwhile one, as well as some tips and tricks!
Why We Should Roll Up Our Sleeves
Energizer Bunny- like Productivity: Once I start my cleaning venture, I realize that I quickly gather bursts of energy like a runner gaining traction… I turn into a “get it done” force which propels me to handle other things like to-do lists, errands, etc.
-Try to utilize this by starting one room at a time. Once you’ve annihilated one area, you’ll more than likely be willing to press forward.
Beyonce Confidence: There is something about getting your life organized that feels POWERFUL. With every accomplishment, I am more proud and empowered with myself. At the end of it all, I usually feel as though I climbed Mt. Everest.
-And for some of ya’ll, that might feel more realistic depending on how high those piles are.
A Little Less High Anxiety, A Little More Relaxation, Baby: Let’s face it, our surroundings have the ability to be calm or aggressive depending on what we let stay there. The less baggage in our space, the easier we can focus on other things. It’s easy to be overwhelmed by an area, and we don’t need any more of that than necessary.
-I actually wake up happier after a good clean for this reason alone.
Free Thy Mind + Give Into the Sud-Soaked Moment: You’re powering through boxes, scrubbing crevices, and focusing hard on your mission. It’s an incredible way to be present and let your mind settle on the task. We all know being present is a WIN.
Move it, Move it: This one’s pretty apparent, when you’re putting in that work, elbow grease, and lifting laundry and items- you’re getting physical. It’s an endorphin builder and a good way to get your steps in for the day.
Now that you’ve got the ammunition to start, here’s a few tips to keep you going:
Throw on Some Jams: or a podcast, or your favorite TV show for background noise. I personally love to catch up on My Favorite Murder or True Crime Obsessed when I’m movin’ and groovin’
Have Snacks and Water Available: you’re burning some energy, have something on hand so that you don’t get too caught up in your work and drain yourself
Light Some Candles: or whatever fragrance that makes you feel cozy, scent really sets a mood and can make you immerse yourself with more gusto
You’ve got this! Set aside some time to alleviate the pressure and try to enjoy the process.
If you have a major decluttering session that involves heavier items, look into a dumpster rental to relieve yourself of the big stuff.
Junk Queen TX is a service that focuses on removing the excess with ease. Check out: dumpster rental-Plano I recently just discovered their services, and felt it would be helpful for anyone’s next big move or a large purging.
Junk Queen TX can remove furniture and junk, they provide dumpsters, in-home removal and in-home pick up. Their services are affordable and they provide discounts for seniors, estate clearings and hoarding situations.
I love that they help hoarders the most, because some individuals can’t declutter on their own, it’s a significantly painful experience tied to a mental disorder and they deserve all the help they can receive.
As always, I hope that you reach out to me if you need a little inspiration or an ear, I’m happy to help and encourage you in your cleaning escapade!