to start new habits
to convince myself to do things differently
to stay more on top of things
it just doesn't work!
I need some sort of Robin Habits Makeover!
Some sort of conference, retreat, ...SOMETHING that truly changes how I do housework.
I was not made with a built-in need for having things clean.
I truly wasn't.
I did not grow up in a house that was always clean
I did not grow up having to keep my room clean.
We cleaned the house on Saturdays. That was my Mom's big cleaning day. And she frantically cleaned until it was done. We had to help...I think. BUT I didn't have to clean my room if I didn't want to. It was my room and I could have it however I wanted. Well, since there wasn't anything in me that naturally wanted things orderly or clean...my room was...well... horrible. Dirty in every way. Stuff piled everywhere. Stuff all over the floor (couldn't ever see the floor really). Anything, anywhere.
The problem with all of that is growing up and not having any sort of habits for keeping things cleaned and/or organized.
Here I sit, taking a break from the MOUNTAIN O' LAUNDRY that I always have.
I keep saying that I am going to do a load a day or every other day and fold it and put it away immediately. BUT I don't. And it piles up.
Then I always think I'll do it on Saturday.
Which sometimes I do.
But then sometimes we make spontaneous trips to see family.
Spend the day with friends at the zoo.
Go out of town.
Various wonderful things that are much more important than cleaning.
BUT
the mountains begin getting larger.
and larger.
So now I face a guest room FULL FULL FULL of clean clothes waiting to be folded and put away.
I do this often.
SO.....how do I truly change how I am wired to start being more on top of housework?
Stop letting it pile and instead take care of it?
I'm not a fan of coming home from work every evening to cook and then clean...not leaving me anytime to spend with the kids....but there must be some way to do at least something small each night once the kids are in bed...
and how do I set that schedule...
and
STICK TO IT?
HELP!!!
:0)
www.motivatedmoms.com
It's easier when you are a stay-at-home mom (what isn't??) but this is a FANTASTIC program!
I hear Fly Lady really helps. Lots of people rave about her help/routine.
I read a book called Messies Anonymous years ago. It really helped me. She has a website now.
For me, I had to make a schedule. AND I had to do some positive reinforcement for myself. I put a marble in a jar for stuff.
Anyway, yeah, Sis, we weren't trained and it's not innate in us. Takes work.
I've always loved your spirit and humor :) !
Yep, I'm with GFG, Flylady.com. You start off VERY slow, just cleaning maybe one part of one room a day for a week and before you know it, your kitchen is clean and it becomes easier to maintain for awhile.
Notice I say "awhile" b/c I grew up just like you and keep house that way also, lol!
When I follow a schedule, even if it's a small one like:
1. do 2 loads of laundry
2. clean toilet in guest bath
3. clean off coffee table.
...I find I will get it done. It's not innate in me either :( (Again...notice I said "When" I follow"...I didn't say I always follow...)
By the way...can I tell you that I think you are missing your calling? Photographer, anyone? Your pics are gorgeous. Professional for sure.
Oh friend, when you find your way...let me know!